Written by distinguished nurse leaders with expertise in policy, practice, education, and research. and policy--this is a practical "how-to" guide written to help advanced students and nurse leaders develop health policy competencies to advocate for patients from the bedside to the larger political arena. Co-published with the ANA, the book examines the pivotal role of nurses involved in health policy, making it an essential resource for nurses pursuing advanced education and nurses desiring to enhance their expertise in making policy and facilitating its change. The book addresses recent changes impacting health care, and many other topics including information on the increased need for primary care providers, how full practice authority has been implemented in different states, the need for an enhanced RN role in ambulatory care, and ongoing changes to the Affordable Care Act. This edition describes the distinct role of nurses impacting policies on the front lines of health care. Current issues with detailed examples of how nurses can exert influence at local, state, national, and global levels at each step of the policymaking process are presented. This second edition emphasizes collaboration within health care institutions, professional organizations, and government for the development of policies from bedside to boardroom. Using descriptive cases, the book delves into the growing role of nurses in elected and appointed office. The book clarifies the process of identifying issues that need a policy solution. A timely contribution focuses on evaluating policy sources, such as Fake News. It stresses how evidence must be used to strengthen policy initiatives. Woven throughout are essential themes basic to healthcare: ethics, leadership, safety, care access and quality of care.--Publisher's website.

Includes index.

Leading the way in policy -- Advocating for nurses and for health -- Navigating the political system -- Identifying a problem and analyzing a policy issue -- Harnessing evidence in the policy process -- Setting the agenda -- Building capital : intellectual, social, political, and financial -- Changing organizations, institutions, and government -- Implementing the plan -- Influencing public opinion and health policy through media engagement -- Applying a nursing lens to shape policy -- Evaluating policy : structures, processes, and outcomes -- Eliminating health inequities through national and global policy -- Valuing global realities for health policy -- Taking action, shaping the future.