1. How to make informed decisions on nursing practice and patient outcomes globally. In addition, state how you will apply what you have learned in this course to your upcoming practicum experience.
Over the last seven weeks, I have developed a much more profound understanding of the critical role that health policy plays in the lives of nurse practitioners and their patients. Through my studies and research, I have come to appreciate the complex interplay between policies, regulations, and laws and how they can impact patient care, access to healthcare services, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities.
On a global basis, nurse practitioners can serve as predominated healthcare providers and help to serve rural and underdeveloped areas. According to Berwick et al. (2018), significant gaps in the research base are required to address quality improvement, particularly among low- and middle-income countries, making it challenging to suggest prioritized approaches. A comprehensive research plan is necessary, including clinical trials, primary research, and implementation research (Berwick et al., 2018). An evidence-based research study by Galvani-Townsend et al. (2022) discovered that countries and territories with publicly funded healthcare have a higher mean life expectancy than those without. Using health policy and evidence-based research, like the one I mentioned above, we can lobby the government and the World Health Organization to increase funding to help bring quality health care to these lower and middle-income countries.
I can also use the knowledge I have gained in this class to make educated, evidence-based, informed decisions and apply them to my upcoming practicum. During my visits to various practice sites, I will find myself curious about the current state of the organization and the environment in which it operates. I am particularly interested in knowing whether any changes are underway and whether the staff is adequately prepared. Additionally, I pay close attention to the kind of leadership present within the organization and how it aligns with its goals and vision. By gathering such information, I am better equipped to provide valuable insights and recommendations to help the organization achieve its objectives. I can also encourage my fellow nurse practitioners to join a coalition like the Florida Coalition of Advanced Practice Nurses. The quickest way to make a change is by joining a group that will advocate for nurse practitioners.
2.Describe how one will apply content from NR506NP to the upcoming clinical courses.
Throughout this course, I have gained a deeper appreciation of nurse practitioners’ challenges in navigating this complex health policy and leadership landscape. I have realized the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest developments and changes in the field. I learned that nurse practitioners in Florida can continue to try to gain independent practice by collaborating to change policies using evidence-based practices. According to Tan et al. (2023), the active participation of nurse practitioners in professional organizations enhances clinical practice, improves patient outcomes, and influences healthcare policy development. Also, as future nurse practitioners, we must be confident and approachable leaders; a prime example of a leadership style nurse practitioners should use is transformational leadership, which is precisely the type of leadership style I will use during my clinical practice. To advocate effectively for my clinical practice, being actively involved in the local community is essential. Building solid relationships with the community members, understanding their needs, and communicating effectively with them is critical to the success of any healthcare practice. This can involve volunteering at local events, participating in community outreach programs, and collaborating with other healthcare providers. By engaging with the community, I can gain valuable insights into their healthcare needs, build trust, and establish a reputation as a caring and compassionate healthcare provider. Ultimately, being involved in the community is a vital aspect of providing excellent care to my patients and ensuring the success of my clinical practice. My experience in this class has been invaluable and has greatly enhanced my understanding of healthcare policy and leadership.
References
Berwick, D., Snair, M., & Nishtar, S. (2018). Crossing the global health care quality chasm: A key component of universal health coverage. Journal of American Medical Association, 320(13), 1317-1318. https://web-p-ebscohost-com.chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org/ehost/detail/detail?vid=1&sid=daaa7912-521e-4557-99ccfffdc0d26ca%40redis&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZSZzY29wZT1zaXRl#AN=30177995&db=mdcLinks to an external site.
Galvani-Townsend, S., Martinez, I., & Abhishek, P. (2022). Is life expectancy higher in countries and territories with publicly funded health care? Global analysis of health care access and the social determinants of health. Journal of Global Health, 12(1), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.7189/jogh.12.04091Links to an external site.
Tan, K. R., Prewitt, J., Fajardo, M., & Hirschey, R. (2023). Expanding leadership and professional development opportunities for oncology nurse practitioners. The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 55(2), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.3928/00220124-20231109-02Links to an external site.
