Describe the history of the nursing profession as advocates for health policy and the community. History of Nursing Advocacy
The nursing profession has a long history of advocating for health policy and the community. Early nurses, such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Eliza Mahoney, were pioneers in promoting sanitation and hygiene in hospitals, and advocating for better conditions for patients. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, nurses began to organize and form professional associations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), which continues to advocate for the nursing profession and patient care.
During World War II, the role of nurses expanded as they were deployed to provide care on the front lines and in military hospitals. This experience helped to further professionalize the nursing field and increase public recognition of the value of nurses…History of Nursing Advocacy…
In the second half of the 20th century, nurses continued to advocate for better patient care and for the nursing profession. They played a key role in the development of the primary care model of health care delivery, which emphasized the importance of preventive care and community-based health services…..History of Nursing Advocacy….
In recent years, nurses have continued to be vocal advocates for health policy and the community. They are often active in lobbying for legislation that affects the nursing profession and patient care, and many nurses serve on boards and committees that advise government agencies on health policy. Additionally, many nurses are involved in community health programs and outreach efforts, working to improve the health of underserved populations.