Nurses could play a significant role in formulating policies that affect their work and the patients they serve. Nurses need to be politically active as this could improve the quality of care they provide to their patients. In addition, they will be in better control of their practice and present the issues they face and discuss on the ways to improve them (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2014). Through this role, there will be an improvement in patient care and safety while the facilities in hospitals will be enhanced.
Virginia Kitchen Cabinet
The Virginia Kitchen cabinet is a perfect example of nurses getting involved politically. The cabinet initiative encouraged nurses to unite and advocate for better working conditions, salary increment, and improved working facilities. The kitchen cabinet is a group of nurse leaders who play a role in advising the political class on the policies that concern the nursing profession (Virginia Nurses Association, 2013). The Cabinet has played a significant role in getting the voices of the nurses to be heard as they have the power in numbers. Given that nursing is one of the selfless professions that have been known to champion the rights of others, oppose injustices and advocacy on behalf of the voiceless, these achievements could only be realized by the efforts of politically active nurses.
Nursing’s Ethical Guidance
Nurses are always confronted with difficult concerns in their line of work. Therefore, they must follow the code of ethics to provide quality healthcare without favor or ill feelings. The code of ethics plays a significant role in helping the nurses in making decisions. Being one of the most trusted professions, nurses are expected to act ethically without being influenced extrinsically. In this case, they should provide their services regardless of whether they are serving a stranger or a friend (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013). The ethical codes assist the nurses in deciding the best course of action when faced with barriers that may prevent them from discharging their duties professionally.