American Organization of Nurse Executives’ Policies

Introduction

All professions require bodies to represent and fight for their interests. They need people who are committed to ensuring their welfare is protected and enhance the creation of a healthy work environment. Professionals cannot be on the streets demonstrating and at the same time offer services to the public. Representation of members of different professions by their bodies enables the government and the public to understand their roles and expectations (Burchill, 2010). These organizations are important in creating communication and conflict management channels to enhance the efficiency and productivity of employees. This discussion examines a current political issue addressed through the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) and how nurses can use this body to be aware of political actions in the nursing and the health care industry.

Background

The American Organization of Nurse Executives was established in 1967 to provide leadership and professional development to nurses (Burchill, 2010). In addition, its mandate includes advancement of nursing practice and patient care through advocacy and research. The most notable achievement of this organization is the promotion and shaping of public policy for health care in America. It has a vision of uniting all nurses and members of this profession to advance health through shaping public policy regarding the provision of health care services.

A Current Political Issue

Nursing has been under a serious threat owing to the inadequate funds allocated to this sector by both the national and federal governments (American Hospital Association, 2011). The American Organization of Nurse Executives advocates an increase of funds to this sector to facilitate efficient delivery of services. The advocacy has political and professional approaches to ensure both governments listen to the voice of nurses and heed to their demands (American Hospital Association, 2011). This organization derives the legitimacy of its advocacy based on the rationale that the increasing shortage of nurses has had negative impacts on the health care system of the United States. The results of these impacts have led to diminished patient care due to the challenges that most nurses face when delivering their services to the public.

AONE is pushing Congress to increase funding for the Nursing Workforce Development Programs. The program is contained in Title VIII of the Public Health Service Act. This organization predicts that there will be a 36% shortage of nurses by 2020 if the government does not address this issue (Burchill, 2010). The expected increase in funding is supposed to address the following challenges. First, this organization advocates funding of advanced education. Nursing schools have a shortage of finances to support masters and post-masters programs that are important in advancing research and knowledge generation in health care (American Hospital Association, 2011). The beneficiaries of this program will inject new energy and knowledge in this field to ensure patients get proper care.

Secondly, the organization wants to ensure all nurses are represented regardless of their economic or racial backgrounds. It strives to push the government to streamline education sponsorship programs to ensure nursing students from underrepresented groups get grants to increase opportunities for them to get the leadership positions in this field (Burchill, 2010). The organization supports the Nurse Education Loan Repayment Program but wants the government to increase funding to ensure graduates are prepared to fill the shortage of staff in health care facilities (American Hospital Association, 2011). Lastly, this organization advocates the allocation of additional funds for nurses who provide direct care for the elderly and patients suffering from chronic illnesses.

The Importance of Professional Organizations to Nurses

Leadership in nursing is an essential issue that controls the activities of this profession. Professional organizations are important for nurses because they represent them in various issues (Burchill, 2010). They fight for their rights and ensure nurses enjoy their work just like members of other professions. These organizations create room for career development through establishing programs to help nurses pursue further studies while working. AONE provides vision and actions for nurse leaders to ensure they manage the challenges of health care needs of the society. Moreover, they influence legislation and public policy related to this field, and this ensures nurses are not ignored when significant changes are made in national matters. Nurses should join and keep in touch with these organizations to ensure they get services that support and enhance the management and development of leadership, educational and professional skills of nursing leaders (American Hospital Association, 2011).

Conclusion

The American Organization of Nurse Executives was established to facilitate the creation of a healthy work environment for nurses. It is currently involved in a tussle with the national and federal governments to increase funding for nursing programs. Professional organizations are good for nurses because they help them to understand the current situations and expected benefits if their demands are fulfilled. Nurses should join these organizations to ensure their rights are protected, and welfare improved. The welfare of nurses focuses on working with the government and other stakeholders like nursing education facilities to improve the welfare of their members.

Reference

American Organization of Nurse Executives. (2011). AONE guiding principles for future care delivery. Nurse Leader, 9(2), 21-26.

Burchill, K. R. (2010). ARRA and meaningful use: is your organization ready?.Journal of healthcare management/American College of Healthcare Executives,55(4), 232.