Nurses Guide and Representation of their Profession

Nursing is a profession that has existed for centuries and has evolved significantly over time. In the past, it was seen as a low status and menial job, but today, nursing is recognized as a critical part of the healthcare system. This transformation can be attributed to the efforts of various organizations that have worked tirelessly to guide and represent the nursing profession. In this paper, we will explore the impact of three major organizations on the nursing profession and how they have contributed to its growth and development.

The Impact of Three Major Organizations on the Nursing Profession

The American Nurses Association (ANA)

One of the most influential organizations in the nursing profession is the American Nurses Association (ANA). Founded in 1896, the ANA is the largest professional organization for registered nurses in the United States. Its mission is to promote the health and wellbeing of nurses and advance the profession through advocacy, education, and support. The ANA has played a significant role in shaping the nursing profession in the US by providing a platform for nurses to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights.
One of the major contributions of the ANA is its role in the development and implementation of the Nursing Code of Ethics. The ANA Code of Ethics is a set of guiding principles that outline the ethical responsibilities of nurses towards their patients, colleagues, and society as a whole. It helps to promote ethical decision-making and ensure the highest standards of care. Through the ANA Code of Ethics, nurses are empowered to make ethical decisions and uphold the integrity of the nursing profession.
Furthermore, the ANA has also been instrumental in pushing for legislation that protects the rights of nurses and promotes their professional development. For instance, the ANA worked tirelessly to pass the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which expanded healthcare coverage to millions of Americans and increased job opportunities for nurses. The ANA also supports the education and advancement of nurses through its various initiatives, such as the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program and the ANA Nursing Career Center.

International Council of Nurses (ICN)

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is a federation of more than 130 national nursing associations, representing more than 20 million nurses worldwide. It was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The mission of the ICN is to represent and advance the nursing profession worldwide while promoting universal access to quality healthcare.
The ICN has played a vital role in advocating for the recognition of nursing as a profession. Through its various campaigns, the ICN has worked to raise the status of nurses and highlight their critical role in healthcare delivery. For instance, the ICN’s ‘Nurses: A voice to lead’ campaign has been instrumental in promoting nurses’ leadership and influencing health policy reforms globally.
The ICN also provides a platform for nurses to share knowledge and best practices through its various conferences and events. This has contributed to the professional development of nurses worldwide, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to provide quality care to their patients.

National League for Nursing (NLN)

The National League for Nursing (NLN) was founded in 1893 and is the premier organization for nurse educators in the United States. Its mission is to promote excellence in nursing education to build a strong and diverse nursing workforce. The NLN has been a driving force in shaping the nursing education system in the US, ensuring that it meets the changing needs of the healthcare industry.
One of the major contributions of the NLN is its role in accreditation of nursing education programs. The NLN Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) is responsible for setting and maintaining standards for nursing education programs, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce. This has helped to improve the quality of nursing education and ensure that nurses are equipped with the necessary skills to provide safe and competent care.
The NLN has also been at the forefront of advocating for diversity in the nursing profession. Through its Diversity and Inclusivity Committee, the NLN promotes the recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups in nursing to create a more diverse and culturally competent nursing workforce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the American Nurses Association, the International Council of Nurses, and the National League for Nursing are three major organizations that have made a significant impact on the way nurses guide and represent their profession. Through their efforts, nurses have gained recognition and respect as an essential part of the healthcare system. These organizations continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of nursing, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and dynamic profession. As the healthcare landscape continues to change, these organizations will be instrumental in guiding and representing the nursing profession, ensuring that nurses are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

By Wilfax Wallace in Blog on February 20, 2024