NR 506 Discussion Example Q1. Explanation of how healthcare policy can impact the advanced practice nurse profession

Advanced practice nurse professionals play a forefront role in safeguarding patient safety and improving well-being by engaging in various elements of nursing practice, including the management of chronic diseases, conducting disease diagnostics, implementing new technologies, and educating the public about health issues. Examples of specialties for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) include nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nurse-midwives, and nurse anesthetists (American Nurses Association, 2017). They demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical, methodological, and practical underpinnings of nursing practice, enabling them to provide evidence-based care, participate in decision-making, and utilize research as a problem-solving tool.

Although APRNs play a significant role in promoting people’s health and wellness, organizational, state, and national policies impact their professional practice and standards. According to Hajizadeh et al. (2021), health policies encompass decisions, actions, and plans for achieving specific healthcare objectives and goals. In this sense, policies primarily focus on priority areas of the current healthcare systems, including patient safety, care accessibility, social determinants of health (SDOH), care costs, and the incorporation of advanced technologies in clinical practices. For example, state policies and regulations, such as the scope of practice (SOP) laws determine APRNs’ autonomy to engage in all elements of nursing practice.

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) understand the intricacies and demands of the current healthcare systems due to their reputable experience and academic qualifications. As a result, they can effectively participate in political actions for improving care quality, accessibility, affordability, and utilization. Equally, they can assume managerial and leadership roles to initiate, plan, implement, and sustain organizational change in the ever-dynamic health sector.