Nursing Advocacy Letter

Nurse Advocacy Letter Draft Assignment

Course: Professional Nursing Practice (RNBSN)

Total Points: 50

Purpose

The purpose of this assignment is for students to identify a nursing-related advocacy topic and develop a draft of a Nurse Advocacy Letter addressed to an elected official or another influential individual who has the ability to impact the selected issue. This activity will allow students to demonstrate professional communication skills, apply evidence-based reasoning, and align nursing advocacy with health policy priorities.

Students will submit the final version of the Nurse Advocacy Letter after revisions are made based off of instructor feedback provided within the draft version of the Nurse Advocacy Letter.

Assignment Overview

Students will:

1. Select a timely and relevant policy issue that has a significant impact on nursing practice, patient outcomes, or public health.
2. Conduct evidence-based research to support the advocacy position.
3. Draft a persuasive and professional advocacy letter addressed to a policymaker or influential stakeholder, clearly stating the issue, its importance, and a specific call to action.
4. Demonstrate audience awareness, using respectful and professional tone tailored to the recipient.
5. Follow correct block letter format and ensure the letter is free from grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.
6. Include a reference page in correct APA 7th edition format listing all scholarly and credible sources cited.

Instructions

1. Choose Your Topic

• Review examples of nursing advocacy topics provided in the provided by your instructor or select your own topic with approval.
• Ensure the topic is relevant, current, and aligned with nursing priorities.

1. Research Your Issue

• Locate current, scholarly, and evidence-based credible sources to support your position.
• Include policy context, relevant data, and perspectives from professional organizations (e.g., ANA, state nursing associations).

1. Write Your Advocacy Letter

• Address the letter to a specific policymaker or stakeholder.
• Clearly describe the issue, its significance, and how it impacts nursing and patient care.
• Include a clear call to action specifying what you want the recipient to do.
• Maintain a professional tone throughout, using language appropriate for the audience.

1. Format & References

• Use professional block letter format.
• Proofread to eliminate spelling, grammar, and formatting errors.
• Provide a separate reference page in APA 7th edition format.

Evaluation

Your work will be graded using the Final Nurse Advocacy Assignment Rubric, which assesses:

1. Understanding of Policy Issue (20 points)
2. Evidence-Based Support (20 points)
3. Advocacy Message & Call to Action (20 points)
4. Audience Awareness & Professional Tone (15 points)
5. Letter Structure, Formatting, & Grammar (15 points)
6. Reference Page (APA 7th ed.) (10 points)