CNOs call for nursing leaders to advocate

CNOs should advocate for policies ─ such as reducing workplace violence and improving staffing ─ that will improve nurse well-being and enable them to deliver high-quality care, according to HealthLeaders CNO Exchange participants.  They encouraged CNOs to make appointments with local, state and federal legislators when they are in their states and districts. CNOs also can call their representatives when members are in session to raise concerns and get to know staff members. In addition, CNOs should develop relationships with their employers’ government relations teams. To be effective advocates, the participants said, CNOs can tell stories about why a particular policy or bill is important and follow up with data. In addition, nurse leaders interested in advocating on Capitol Hill can register for AONL Advocacy Day on June 2-3 in Washington, D.C. (HealthLeaders Media article, 4/15/25)