Focus on RN-as-circulator legislation

AORN Journal,  Sept, 2005  by Catherine A.G. Sparkman

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Continuing through the fall, AORN staff members and local initiative coordinators will begin the task of identifying key legislators, particularly those who understand nursing and can knowingly support Legislation drafted by AORN. Sponsors will be identified, and legislation will be drafted to meet legislative filing deadlines. Government Affairs Department staff members then will research key legislators and decision makers, as well as other entities that may have a stake in the outcome of the legislation (eg, hospitals, physicians, peer organizations). During this time, Government Affairs Department staff members will

* develop and refine background papers and supporting data for use by members in the grassroots campaign;

* prepare and tailor state-specific and legislator-specific communication plans, including talking points and suggested letter content; and

* research and disseminate lists of legislators, staff members, and other key decision makers and contacts.

Specific bill language then will be selected and submitted for official drafting.

As the legislative session nears its opening day, Government Affairs Department staff members will determine the strategy for bill introduction and timing and assist in communication efforts with AORN's partners, key contacts, and grassroots members. As legislatures in various states move through their calendars, AORN will continue to support the grassroots efforts that local coordinators have put in place, helping to move the legislation through the draft and committee stages to the point where it is ready for a vote. Additionally, proponents of the initiative will identify and solicit allies and supporters of the proposed legislation.

The best outcome for any legislative initiative is to secure passage of the bill and have it sent to the governor's desk for signature. Realistically, the legislative process may take two years or longer to pass legislation, even when the subject is as critical as patient safety. In any event, AORN is committed to the success of its legislative initiatives and looking for opportunities to set the stage in other states for future action.

THE CIRCULATOR ROLE

Ten Reasons to Have an RN in the Circulator Rote

10. Education grounded in practice. An RN has years of didactic and clinical education that result in firmly-grounded understanding of all aspects of the perioperative arena beginning in the preoperative area, continuing through the surgical procedure, and culminating in the postoperative area.

9. Time-tested knowledge. An RN's knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology are indispensable to the successful treatment of patients, who may present with widely-varied conditions.

8. Clear communication skirts. The unique combination of professionalism, proficiency, and perception that defines an RN gives him or her the ability to continually interact with all members of the surgical team, which results in ensuring that the highest level of care is provided to the patient.