Political influence: a model for advanced nursing education.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Leadership
• Healthcare Policy
• Advanced Practice Registered Nursing

Background:

• The American Nurses Association's standards expect advanced nursing practice leaders to engage in healthcare policy.
• Graduate nursing students often exhibit an apolitical stance, unaware of the consequences of inaction.
• Developing political influence skills is crucial for graduate nursing education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a model for developing political influence skills in graduate nursing students.
• To encourage advanced practice nurses (APNs) to become more active in healthcare policy.

Main Methods:

• A four-dimensional model (information, commitment, initiative, involvement) was developed.
• Model dimensions were operationalized through specific student activities.
• The model's effectiveness was assessed by observing student progression.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated a shift from an apolitical state towards a moderate level of political involvement.
• The model facilitated increased awareness and activity in the political arena among students.
• The educational model proved effective in skill development.

Conclusions:

• The presented model is effective for educating future advanced practice nurses in healthcare policy engagement.
• The model's principles are applicable beyond educational settings for all advanced practice nurses (APNs).
• Fostering political skills is essential for the nursing profession's impact on healthcare policy.