In modern times, the range of functions and competencies of nursing staff is significantly expanding and increasing. The challenges of the health care area require professionals with advanced scholar and practical skills. Historically, nursing has been one of the most prominent sectors of medicine, as it is directly related to patients, their physical and psychological condition, observation, and care. Neuman (2012) notes that this profession is dynamic and is evolving along with social needs and trends. In this paper, I describe the expanding role of the nurse in society and potential areas of my efforts to advocate for patients and influence positive social change in health care.
Expanding Role of the Nurse
Many health care and related areas require an increased presence and activity of nurses. Bodenheimer and Bauer (2016) state that the primary care sector can operate much more effectively with nurses’ increased involvement and the expansion of their functions. Moreover, it is becoming evident that nurses need advanced research skills because they have valuable experience in observation and interaction with patients. Researchers that, at some point in their careers, nursing professionals experience the need to develop a research proposal and assess its social impact (Bradbury-Jones & Taylor, 2014). Nurses’ study initiatives can provide meaningful insights into the health care delivery process. In addition, some authors argue that nurses need to be trained in social entrepreneurship skills in order to effectively deal with social inequalities and other challenges (Gilmartin, 2013). Thus, the issue of the expanding role of the nurse is actively raised and discussed in society. That is necessary, among other things, to advocate for patients and influence positive social change in health care.
Advocacy for Patients
The protection of patients’ interests requires a comprehensive approach and relevant initiatives in a number of areas. I will first attempt to apply my research and entrepreneurial skills to develop practical solutions to the problem of unaffordable medical services. This challenge requires the collaboration of health care professionals, including nurses, legislators, and private sector representatives such as insurance companies. I will also perform my duties based on the principle of considering the individual needs and feelings of patients, as nursing care exists in the context “of the values and beliefs of the patient and nurse” (Neuman, 2012, p. 4). I am actively involved and will further participate in social discussions on possible measures and legislative initiatives to address health care disparities against discriminated population groups.
Positive Social Change in Health Care
Positive social changes are already taking place in the health care sector, and the engagement of nursing professionals in this regard is increasing. I will regularly improve my qualifications and skills in order to be aware of current social problems in health care and the ways to solve them. I believe that complex challenges require participation in professional communities, and therefore I intend to be a member of nursing and other medical organizations designed to foster social change. Gilmartin (2013) also emphasizes the significance of training courses and conferences. I will strive to be a social innovator both in the workplace and on a social scale.
Conclusion
It may be concluded that the nurse’s expanding role is a response to social challenges in health care. Nursing professionals require a number of new competencies and functions in order to perform their duties. In modern times, they also play a research and social innovation role to a certain extent, as they have the unique experience of interaction with patients. They are acquiring new instruments and methods for social change in health care.
References
Bodenheimer, T., & Bauer, L. (2016). Rethinking the primary care workforce-an expanded the role for nurses. The New England Journal of Medicine, 375(11), 1015–1017.
Bradbury-Jones, C., & Taylor, J. (2014). Applying social impact assessment to nursing research. Nursing Standard, 28(48), 45–49.
Gilmartin, M. J. (2013). Principles and practices of social entrepreneurship for nursing. Journal of Nursing Education, 52(11), 641–644.
Neuman, C. E. (2012). Nursing: A social policy statement. In A. O’Sullivan & K. M. White (Eds.), The essential guide to nursing practice: Applying ANA’s scope and standards in practice and education (pp. 1–10). American Nurses Association Publications.