RNs and APRNs have an obligation to participate in policy review to make sure that the new implementations are effective and improve patient outcomes.

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Chloe Hespeler 

RE: Discussion – Week 9

COLLAPSE

Main Post Question

           RNs and APRNs have an obligation to participate in policy review to make sure that the new implementations are effective and improve patient outcomes. They can participate in policy review by ensuring that the policy is improving “access, cost and quality of healthcare” (Walden University, 2018b). Before the evaluation can begin, the nurse should already have an idea in mind of the expected results that this policy was intended to fix or address. Then, the nurse can decide whether or not it is fulfilling its purpose and acting effectively. Furthermore, the specific way to determine program success is through efficiency and effectiveness (Walden University, 2018c). 

           Some challenges nurses may be faced with during policy review is the repetition of the program. This is why it is vital to ensure at the beginning of program implementation that guidelines, components, and expected outcomes are extremely well defined so they can be exactly repeated or if minor changes need to be made in the case that the program was only somewhat effective or not effective at all. Another challenge is obtaining informed consent from members that are participating (Walden University, 2018a). Although the act of getting someone to sign a paper is not strenuous, the opportunity for more questions may arise and as part of patients’ rights, they are always welcome to walk away from a study/program at any time. 

           In order to advocate and communicate these opportunities, I would take a two-sided approach, meaning I would get both the community and health professionals more involved. For the community, it is important for them to know that these programs are undergoing thorough evaluation to test their effectiveness and ensure the improvement of patient safety and outcomes. The results should be made readily available to the public. It is important for RNs and APRNs to understand the importance of policy review and how it can improve patient outcomes and allow for new, innovative ways to provide care.

References

Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (2018a). Peter Beilenson: Ethics and advocacy [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (2018b). Program Policy and Evaluation [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.