NURS 6050 week 8 Discussion: The Role of the RN/APRN in Policy-Making Discussion Board: The Role of the RN/APRN in Policymaking Post an explanation of at least two opportunities for RNs and APRNs to participate in policymaking actively. 

Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses can participate in policy making in two ways. Nurses can be involved in the policy design process and research regarding health services (Milstead & Short, 2019). When participating in the policy design process, nurses are considered professional experts and are often asked to consult on committees to assist policymakers in drafting new legislation (Milstead & Short, 2019). Nurses involved with professional nursing organizations are also able to advocate for change, such as allowing advanced practice nurses to operate with full practice authority in a particular state. Nurses can also bring social issues in healthcare to policymakers who, before this, may not have been aware the issue existed (Milstead & Short, 2019)NURS 6050 week 8 Discussion: The Role of the RN/APRN in Policy-Making.

Health services research focuses on multiple areas of the healthcare industry. Milstead & Short (2019) noted that health services research specifically related to the field of nursing could assist in improving quality of care, access to care, and patient safety. Nurses involved in research can assist policymakers in identifying problems, estimating the cost of potential change, and assist with identifying the risk versus the benefit of the change overall (Milstead & Short, 2019). This information is essential to consider as the goal is to achieve patient safety and the best patient outcomes possible for the community that is being served.