10.6 Steps to Becoming an Advocate

To become a nursing advocate, identify causes, issues, or needs where YOU can exert influence.

Steps to becoming an advocate include the following^[1]:

1. Identify a problem that interests you: Start by pinpointing a specific issue or area within nursing that you are passionate about. This could range from patient safety and quality of care to workplace conditions and professional development opportunities.
2. Research the subject and select an evidence-based intervention: Conduct thorough research on the identified issue. Look for evidence-based practices and interventions that have been proven to address or mitigate the problem effectively. Gathering robust data will help you build a solid case for your advocacy efforts.
3. Network with experts who are, or could be, involved in making the change: Connect with professionals and experts who are either already involved in addressing the issue or who could play a crucial role in implementing changes. Building a network of like-minded individuals can provide support, resources, and additional perspectives.
4. Work hard for change: Advocacy requires dedication and persistence. Actively participate in efforts to bring about the desired change. This might include engaging in public speaking, writing articles or blogs, meeting with policymakers, or organizing community events to raise awareness.

Once you have identified a topic of interest, it’s crucial to get involved in activities that can amplify your advocacy efforts:

• Committees: Volunteer to participate in committees that review and develop practice policies within your health care institution.
• Professional Nursing Organizations: Become a member of state and national nursing organizations. These groups often provide valuable resources, including access to current legislative and policy initiatives, public policy agendas, and ways to get involved.
• Research and Review: Stay informed by researching best practices and reviewing the health policy agendas of elected officials. Understanding the current landscape will help you identify opportunities to influence policy and practice.

Nurses hold a powerful position to be effective advocates due to their frontline role in health care delivery. Their unique insights into patient care, the work environment, and health care systems make them valuable voices in policy discussions. As the largest sector of the health care workforce, nurses have significant potential to influence decisions at every level.

Advocating for change can lead to improved quality of care, better patient outcomes, and safe work environments. By pushing for evidence-based practices and policies, nurses can help ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Advocacy efforts focused on patient safety and quality can directly impact patient health and recovery. Additionally, nurses can advocate for better working conditions, which can lead to a safer and more supportive environment for all healthcare workers.

Imagine the impact if every nurse actively engaged in advocacy. The collective efforts could drive substantial improvements in health care delivery and policy, leading to positive changes across the profession.