Policy Advocacy Motivators and Barriers: Research Results and Applications

Abstract

We live in uncertain times. That uncertainty, however, gives nurses opportunities to use their powerful and strategic position to positively impact healthcare and society at large. One evidence-based means to make that impact is through policy advocacy. It is broadly accepted that nurses have a professional, ethical, and social responsibility to advocate. Yet, too often, they default on advocacy responsibilities within the policy arena. An original correlational research study, which investigated barriers and motivators toward policy advocacy for members of one state nursing organization, serves as an exemplar of how to systematically address this practice gap. Findings from this study demonstrated significant relationships and positive correlations between advocacy frequency and three variables: participant perceptions of speaking skills when addressing a policy maker; understanding the organizational daily advocacy activities; and understanding policy creation. This article reviews the research process, study results and discussion, and concludes with implications for applicable, practical recommendations for readers to move forward in advocacy.