Participation of nurses in health services decision-making and policy development

Background: Nursing is not always invited to the table during health services decision-making and policy development at the local, national or international level. Nurses are often the only health care providers accessible to the underserved and disadvantaged. The position of the International Council of Nurses (ICN) is that nurses must be included for sound and effective decisions and policies to be developed. Research demonstrates that nurses’ participation in these activities improves achievement of health goals. Objective: To provide needed updates to the ICN position statement on Participation of Nurses in Health Services Decision-Making and Policy Development is to include the most current policies, goals and statements from both the ICN and its international partners. Methods: The project proceeded in three phases: 1. Review of the ICN position statement elements; 2. Review of ICN literature related to the topic; 3. Review of relevant international literature (e.g. United Nations, World Bank, etc.). Results: A wide variety of literature was identified and catalogued to be included to both update and strengthen the current position statement. The updated statement clearly reflects the stance of the international community as to the importance of including nurses in health services decision-making and policy development. Discussion: Nurses are leaders on the health care team and are key stakeholders in advancement of health in their nations. They must have sufficient education to be able to participate effectively in decision-making and policy development. Nurses must be actively engaged within their organizations and in the community so that health goals can be achieved. Conclusion: Professional and national nursing associations should adopt the position statement of the ICN to advance health services decision-making and policy development within their own local and national settings. Nurses must continue to work toward achieving the goals of the position statement within their communities. Leaders must ensure nurses are included in decision-making and policy development alongside other key stakeholders.