Nurses and Civic Engagement—Our Voice Can Make Change
- Advocate Maggie MSN RN
- Jan 15
- 5 min read
Hey there, my fellow advocates! I hope you all had a great holiday—whatever that looked like for you—and are kicking off the new year strong with your resolutions. I know we all talk about self-care, and I’m right there with you, but I’m here to tell you that nursing advocacy needs to be at the top of that list this year. Why? Because without it, we can’t create the changes we need for ourselves, our profession, and our patients.
I get asked all the time, "How can we advocate and make real change?" Well, the answer starts with understanding how change works and why our voices matter. We’re a million strong, and we’ve got the power to make a real difference. It’s time to stop waiting for change to happen to us and start making it happen for us.
Why This Matters
As nurses, we’re experts in patient care, but we also need to become experts in advocating for the policies that affect our work. The laws that govern nursing—everything from staffing ratios to licensure—are made by people who often don’t know what it’s like to work a 12-hour shift in a busy hospital or clinic. That’s why it’s crucial we get involved and make sure our voices are heard.
Real-World Advocacy
I recently spoke to Citizen Nurse: Gilanie De Castro, RN, who has been a trailblazer in bringing nurses into civic discussions. Her work proves that one voice can make a difference. Whether it’s running for office, lobbying for better workplace policies, or organizing community health initiatives, nurses like Gilanie are paving the way for the rest of us.
Contact/Follow The Citizen Nurse:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citizennurse/
Email: gilanie.decastro@gmail.com
January Podcast- Interview of Citizen Nurse: Gilanie De Castro, RN
Learning from Real Cases: Civic Failures in Nursing
This month, our case review focuses on what happens when nurses fail to speak up for patient safety during procedural sedation. The takeaway? Advocacy isn’t just about politics—it’s about standing up for what’s right in every situation.
What’s Happening in the Civic World for Nurses?
As we kick off 2025, new leaders will take office at local, state, and federal levels. Whether or not you agree with their platforms, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged because the policies they enact will directly impact your practice.
The Power of the Nurse Vote: In recent elections, healthcare was a top voter concern. Nurses make up one of the largest professional groups in the country. Imagine the change we could create if more of us got involved.
Presidential Priorities: Look for any announcements tied to healthcare reform. Watch closely for updates on Medicare, nursing education funding, and workplace safety laws.
Local and State Focus
State Legislative Sessions: Many state legislatures convene in January. Key topics to watch for include staffing ratio laws, workplace violence protections, and funding for nursing education programs.
Your Voice Matters: Join your local nursing associations to stay updated on legislation impacting nurses in your state. Organizations like the ANA and state-level nursing associations are often at the forefront of advocating for better conditions.
Nursing Association Highlights
National Nurses United (NNU): Advocating for safe staffing ratios and healthcare reform.
American Nurses Association (ANA): Pushing for federal legislation to address the nurse staffing crisis.
State-Level Advocacy: Check your local nursing association’s website for updates on legislative priorities and ways to get involved.
Nursing Tips for Civic Engagement
Track Bills Easily: Use apps like GovTrack or Open States to monitor legislation that affects nursing.
Find Your Representatives: Visit House.gov or Senate.gov to locate your federal representatives, or check your state legislature’s website for local contacts.
Join Advocacy Events: Many nursing associations host advocacy days where you can meet lawmakers and discuss key issues.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the first nurse to hold a federal government position was Frances Payne Bolton, who advocated for nursing education reform in the 1940s? Imagine how many more seats we could hold today!
Advocacy Corner: How Nurses Can Get Involved
Let’s get real: We’re great at advocating for our patients, but when was the last time you advocated for your profession? This month, I’m challenging every nurse reading this to take one small step toward civic engagement.
Key Strategies
Learn the Basics: If you don’t know how a bill becomes a law, now’s the time to find out. Start with state-level processes, which often have a more direct impact on nurses.
Speak Up Locally: Local governments often set budgets for public health initiatives and nursing education. Attend a city council meeting or write a letter to your local representatives.
Collaborate with Associations: Nursing associations are powerful allies. They can guide you in contacting lawmakers, organizing events, or even running for office.
Your Role in Advocacy
Start Small: Advocate for safer conditions at your facility. Use your chain of command when you see unsafe practices.
Stay Educated: Know your state’s Nurse Practice Act and how it intersects with federal laws.
Document Everything: Whether it’s patient care or pushing for policy changes, thorough documentation protects you and strengthens your case.
Civic Advocacy Tips
Register to Vote: It’s the simplest way to make your voice heard.
Write Letters to Lawmakers: Share your perspective as a nurse. Personal stories can be incredibly impactful.
Run for Office: Whether it’s a hospital board or city council, nurses bring a unique and needed perspective to leadership roles.
Conclusion
This month, let’s remember that nurses are more than just caregivers—we’re changemakers. By understanding the intersection of nursing and civic engagement, we can create a future where nurses have a say in the decisions that affect us all.
Take the time to educate yourself, get involved, and—most importantly—remember that your voice matters. Together, we can advocate for safer workplaces, better policies, and a healthcare system that truly works for everyone.
Stay tuned for next month’s blog, where we’ll dive into the role of nurse leaders in transforming healthcare policy. Until then—Nurse Love, Tough Love. Let’s go!
Looking For More Resources?
Remember my fellow nurses and healthcare providers that Advocates For Nurses is your one-stop shop for empowering your nursing journey:
Online Charting Courses: Join this comprehensive charting course to stay on top of current best practices in documentation, designed to help you avoid common charting pitfalls. Gain insights into accurate and effective charting techniques and earn a CE credit to keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date.
"Guide To The Courtroom For Nurses" E-book: Equip yourself with the confidence to navigate legal proceedings with this essential e-book. Designed with nurses in mind, this guide covers crucial steps for understanding the legal process, so you’re prepared for any situation. A must-have for every nurse looking to build their legal awareness and protect their practice.
Schedule a Meeting With Maggie: Get personalized support tailored to your unique situation with a one-on-one consultation. Gain clarity, actionable advice, and industry expertise to help you achieve your goals and strengthen you or your company's impact in healthcare.
Introduction to Legal Nursing Course: Thinking about transitioning to legal nursing? This affordable, comprehensive course teaches you the fundamentals, helping you apply your education, training, and knowledge in a legal setting. Whether you’re interested in working independently, subcontracting, or joining a law firm, this course provides the insights and essential skills you need to get started confidently without overspending.
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