Nurses' Political Participation: Going Back to Our Roots

Nurses' political participation plays a crucial role in shaping how health-disease processes are understood and addressed, as well as in developing both our discipline and the profession. Yet, despite its importance, this area requires further advancement. This article explores key factors that influence nurses' involvement in political life, paying particular attention to the historical barriers that have limited our progress. Also, it examines the political process itself, and the different roles nurses can take on it. It also delves into the available evidence regarding the components of nurses' political competence. Finally, a series of recommendations is proposed to advance nurses' political competence across clinical, educational, and research fields.