TRENDS CH. 9

Professionalism in Nursing

• According to Pavalko, education is one of eight dimensions describing a profession and is at the forefront of discussions about nursing's professionalism.
• Altruism, social values, and code of ethics are related to nursing's professionalism but are not at the forefront.
• Debate continues regarding the necessary education level for professional nursing since the 1965 ANA position paper.
• There is agreement that social values, altruism and ethics are relevant to the profession.

Representing Nursing in Legislation

• The American Nurses Association (ANA) represents nursing in practice for both generalists and specialists and has been at the forefront of policy issues.
• The International Congress of Nursing focuses on worldwide health care and nursing issues.
• The American Academy of Nursing is an organization honoring nurses with special contributions.
• The American Red Cross is an international organization assisting with disaster relief and education.

Levenstein's Characteristics of a Profession

• Both Levenstein’s and Pavalko’s models emphasize the importance of a code of ethics within a profession.
• The models do not specifically require a defined progression of education, an accreditation process, or publications.

Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974

• ERISA allowed the American Nurses Association to represent nurses in collective bargaining issues.
• ERISA did not establish a framework or provide financial support for research/education, but rather enacted a law.

Decline in ANA Membership

• The rising popularity of specialized nursing organizations led to the decrease in membership of the ANA.
• Nurses are believed to seek specialized organizations to address their specific practice area.
• Other factors like membership dues, union representation, and lack of state/local organizations are not causes for the decline,

Johnson & Johnson Campaign for Nursing’s Future

• Johnson & Johnson sought to increase young adults entering nursing.
• They increased the visibility of nurses of different races, genders, and roles through public announcements and campaigns.

Consequences of Devaluing Nursing

• Continuing to portray demeaning/comical images of nurses could extend the nursing shortage.
• Devaluing the profession may discourage individuals from entering the field.

Improving the Image of Nursing

• Nurses can improve the image of nursing through public education.
• Explaining what nurses do and maintaining professionalism can help change negative images.

Relevance of Nursing to Social Values

• Nursing aligns with social values through health promotion and wellness education.
• As healthcare shifts to primary prevention, nurses’ teaching abilities strengthen social values.

Birth of Nursing Theory

• Dr. Peplau's nursing model publication in 1952 is seen as the start of nursing theory.
• Having a theoretical framework on professional practice is one of Pavalko's eight dimensions describing a profession.

International Council of Nursing (ICN)

• The ICN focuses on worldwide healthcare and nursing issues.
• It represents nurses globally, convening every four years to discuss current issues and trends.

National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)

• The NSNA nurtures future nurses’ professional development and eases their entrance into the profession.
• Other nursing organizations are geared toward professional nurses, not students.

Strengthening the Image of Nurses in the 1990s

• Efforts were made to improve nurses' image on television.
• This campaign reinforced the idea that nurses are critical thinkers with problem-solving skills.
• The public began recognizing nurses as skilled and educated healthcare professionals.

Improving the Image of Nursing (Actions)

• Upholding ethical standards and professional behavior is conducive to improving the image of nurses.
• Being aware of societal perceptions and protesting inappropriate images can also improve nursing image.

Creating a Professional Image (Nurse Actions)

• Nurses can create a professional image by communicating effectively.
• Maintaining a positive attitude and professional appearance, and being prepared to interact with the public can improve professional image.

Controlling the Nursing Profession

• Nurses can contribute to their profession through joining organizations.
• Ways to contribute include: publishing documents and participating in state boards.

American Red Cross Volunteer Nurse Actions

• American Red Cross volunteer nurses: provide disaster relief, teach first aid, and guide volunteers.
• Volunteer nurses are not responsible for staffing local hospitals.