Report on Nursing Legislation Research and Patient Advocacy

This report delves into the analysis of nursing legislation, specifically focusing on the National Nursing Shortage Reform and Patient Advocacy Act (S.864). The legislation, introduced in the 114th Congress, aims to address the nursing shortage by mandating hospitals to establish and adhere to nurse-to-patient ratios. It also emphasizes the role of nurses as patient advocates, empowering them to influence healthcare decisions and advocate for patient well-being. The report examines the implications of this legislation, including the potential impact on healthcare quality, patient safety, and the rights and responsibilities of nurses. The document highlights the importance of nurse advocacy in improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring patient-centered care, referencing the role of healthcare IT tools. Furthermore, the report explores the implications of the legislation on nurse staffing levels and the allocation of resources within healthcare facilities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the legal and ethical considerations of nursing practice.

Running head: Research legislation
Research legislation
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

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Research legislation
Current nursing care is complex evolving and multidisciplinary. The aim of nursing has,
however, remain unchanged for years to ensure a healthy and well-being atmosphere for the
safety and well-being of patients. Good use of an organizational tool, for example advocacy
strengthens the treatment environment (Sanford, 2012).
National Nursing Shortage Reform and Patient Advocacy Act- S.864 — 114th Congress
(2015-2016): Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate that hospitals enact a staffing
plan which meets the required nurse / patient ratios defined by unit and send it to the Department
of Health and Human Services (HHS). It directs HHS to create a straightforward system to
establish standards for nursing staff within the minimum ratios. HHS orders Medicaid
reimbursement to hospitals to be tailored to cover the extra costs involved with delivering
services to Medicare patients due to complying with these ratios. Gives healthcare providers like
nurses the right to act as advocates of patients through action for improving the quality of
healthcare and giving the patient a chance to make informed healthcare decisions. Requires a
nurse to respond to or decline any assignment if it exceeds minimum requirements or if, by
education or experience, the nurse has not been trained to perform the assignment without
risking a patient's health or threats to a nursing license (Congress.gov, 2015). According to this
legislation, a nurse is entitled as advocate of a patient as required by — (1) taking measures to
improve or to change the decision or activity on a healthcare basis, including recommendations
on health-care IT tools that in the nurse's professional assessment run counter to patient interests
and desires, and (2) providing a opportunity for a patient to do so (Congress.gov, 2015).

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References
Congress.gov. (2015). S.864 - 114th Congress (2015-2016): National Nursing Shortage Reform
and Patient Advocacy Act. Retrieved 30 January 2020, from
https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/864
Sanford, K. (2012). Overview and summary: nurse advocates: past, present, and future. OJIN:
The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 17(1).