Nursing

Overview

This week’s readings and lecture offered information related to lobbyists and advocates. Is there a difference between being a lobbyist and an advocate? Lobbyists provide support for policy, as do advocates, so what is the difference? Most nurses consider themselves patient advocates; however a political advocate is somewhat different. In this discussion, differentiate between a lobbyist and an advocate. Be sure to discuss a political advocate rather than a bedside advocate. Topics to include:

· Definition of a lobbyist.

· Definition of an advocate.

· Similarities and differences.

· Why are they both important?

· How does  one of your selected organizations (choose one you used in your week 3 DB -  What is the definition of Nursing Excellence - these organizations were discussed in the week 3 PowerPoint) lobby or advocate for health care policy?

Your initial post must be posted before you can view and respond to colleagues, must contain minimum of two (2) references, in addition to examples from your personal experiences to augment the topic. The goal is to make your post interesting and engaging so others will want to read/respond to it. Synthesize and summarize from your resources in order to avoid the use of direct quotes, which can often be dry and boring. No direct quotes are allowed in the discussion board posts.

Post a thoughtful response to at least two (2) other colleagues' initial postings. Responses to colleagues should be supportive and helpful (examples of an acceptable comment are: "This is interesting - in my practice, we treated or resolved (diagnosis or issue) with (x, y, z meds, theory, management principle) and according to the literature..." and add supportive reference. Avoid comments such as "I agree" or "good comment."

Points: 30

Due Dates:

· Initial Post: Friday of Week 5 by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) of the US.

· Response Post: Sunday of Week 5 by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) of the US 

References:

· Initial Post: Minimum of two (2) total references: one (1) from required course materials and one (1) from peer-reviewed references.

· Response posts: Minimum of one (1) total reference: one (1) from peer-reviewed or course materials reference per response.

Words Limits

· Initial Post: Minimum 200 words excluding references (approximately one (1) page)

· Response posts: Minimum 100 words excluding references.