FINDING YOUR NICHE; HEALTH POLICY MAKERS OR HEALTH POLICY EXECUTORS

The unique function of the nurse is to assist the individual, sick or well, in performance of those activities contributing to health or its recovery…”

How about I tell you that with inappropriate systems, the “unique function” is the same as useless? 

By the way, that was Virginia Henderson’s definition of nursing. (1966)

Attending the Institute of Nursing Research Nigeria's conference in 2023 profoundly transformed my view of the nursing profession. 

We can’t be so dependent on the foundation of nursing, pathophysiology of diseases and our interventions as nurses, that we forget the need to have a mind of our own. 

In this article, I am to talk about the role of health policymakers and health policy executors, who in this case, are nurses.

When you come into the field as a nursing student, you're faced with several directions you can take in your career. 

Of all the multiple specialities in nursing, 

 1. You can either become a nurse policymaker or the trailblazer of the profession. 

 2. You can become a nurse executor, the ones who make nursing happen, day in and day out.

The policymakers in nursing are the visionaries who see beyond the current state of healthcare. They are motivated by the possibility of change and improvement. These are the nurses who step into roles where decisions are made and policies are proposed. They work in environments where the focus is on how healthcare is delivered, how it can be improved, and how nurses can provide the best care under the best conditions. 

Policymakers are involved in research, policy development, and leadership, which influence the direction of healthcare and nursing practices at a systemic level.

For those drawn to this path, it involves a commitment to understanding the complexities of healthcare systems, a desire to advocate for change, and the pursuit of further education in areas like health policy and advocacy, leadership, and administration. Engaging with professional organizations and discussions are also great ways to identify as a nurse policymaker.

Do you already possess those characteristics? You might consider the option. 

Now, policy executors are the nurses who bring policies and innovations to life. They are the ones on the frontline, directly impacting patients' lives through their care and dedication. This role is vital because it ensures that the vision and policies created by the policymakers are effectively implemented and translated into the delivery of care.

These policy executors are experienced in navigating the day-to-day realities of patient care, by adapting to challenges, and ensuring that nursing practices reflect the highest evidence-based standards.

If you're naturally inclined towards direct patient care, if you find satisfaction in the immediate impact of your nursing roles, then the role of a policy executor might be for you. 

However, do not see it as being at the receiving end without any autonomy whatsoever. 

Rather than just following policies, being a nurse policy executor is more about being an advocate for your patients within those guidelines and policies, and always looking for ways to provide better care.

Nursing is a profession and not a vocation like it used to be. It is a profession that combines science with compassion while offering the opportunity to improve patient care. 

 The role of the nurse, either in forming policies or implementing them at the bedside is about making a real difference towards care. 

Don't forget, it's still your unique function as a nurse to assist the individual, sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health or its recovery (or to peaceful death) that he would perform unaided if he had the necessary strength, will, or knowledge. 

Thanks for reading!