Nurses are on the front lines of healthcare delivery and are uniquely positioned to influence policy changes that can lead to improved patient care and healthcare access. Discuss the role of nurses in shaping healthcare policy. How can advanced practice nurses advocate for policy reforms that benefit patient outcomes and the nursing profession? (CSLO #2)

• Key areas where nurses can impact healthcare policy (e.g., access to care, scope of practice, patient safety).
• Strategies that nurses can use to engage in policy advocacy (e.g., through professional organizations, legislative committees, or leadership roles).
• Provide an example of a successful policy initiative led by nurses.

should be 350 words and include at least one scholarly source.