ANACA The Nursing Voice Fall 2019

anacalifornia.org  .  7 Nursing Practice Director Summary Christine Tarver, DNP, RN, CNS, NEA-BC—Nursing Practice Director In a recent conversation with a peer regarding nursing practice, I was deeply inspired by the phrase she used: “Not about us without us.” The concept being: decisions cannot be made about the profession of nursing without nursing professionals being involved in the decisions. I could even say without nursing professionals leading the decision-making. Sadly, this is not always the case. Decisions are made about nursing practice without us. However, there is a method to assure nursing is involved with practice decisions, and it starts with you. A first step could be to understand the pathway by which policies and procedures are approved internally where you are employed. Giving input on draft policies and procedures can be an invaluable method for influenc- ing nursing practice at your organization. The key is to offer suggestions and edits with the foundation of evidence-based practice. You can also become an informed California nurse, understanding the California Nursing Practice Act and paying attention when there is a proposal to adjust it. Next year, bill AB890 will again be at the forefront of discussion in Sacramento. Your state senators and assembly-persons will have the power to expand the scope of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to full practice authority. Undoubtedly this will increase access for all in California to primary care and will lead to improved outcomes in healthcare. Do your representatives know your support of AB890? This is a critical time for California nurses to unite our voices; reach out to your legislative rep when they are back in your cities and towns later in September. If you need guidance on your messaging, reach out to me or any one of the ANA\California Board of Directors. I was introduced to a great book by my CNO: The One Thing: The Surprising Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Kellar with Jay Papasan. Improving our profession by increasing practice authority for NPs would be extraordinary for all Califor- nians; think of the one thing you can do to support a positive outcome for AB890…and then do it! Contact Christine— practice@anacalifornia.org BOD Corner