Advancing Nursing Policy Advocacy Knowledge: A Theoretical Exploration

Nursing policy advocacy continues to be recognized as a key part of a nurse's role by educators, professional associations, and regulators. Despite normative calls on nurses to engage in political action and advocacy, limited theories, models, and frameworks exist to support this practice within nursing. Using Walt and Gilson's Health Policy Triangle Framework, this article explores the theoretical underpinnings of policy advocacy to enhance nursing's contemporary role in advancing social justice. Specific consideration is placed on the type of nursing and policy knowledge and perspectives required to understand policy content, contexts, processes, and actors.