President's message

Arizona Nurse,  Nov 2002  by Player, Kathy

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A large part of leadership is the ability to inspire passion and vision in others so that together everyone is working toward the same goal. As president of AzNA, I am energized by the enthusiastic involvement of our members. Getting to know firsthand what member's areas of interest are and then finding and fulfilling that avenue of involvement for them is tremendously gratifying. Nurses have a passion for educating others, whether it is the public, patients, other nurses or student nurses. Nurses are gifted with the ability to teach and there is a sense of fulfillment in sharing the voice and wisdom of nurses. This voice may come in the form of written or verbal messages both of which are powerful tools for creating change and growth. As we give ourselves a voice, we are in essence helping to groom other nurses as future leaders. What a contagion to have passed along and spread. Fortunately and unfortunately, one strong-minded nurse, coupled with a powerful voice seems to carry the load for over 1000 nurses.

Opportunities for giving ourselves as nurses a voice in the public sector are plentiful in the state of Arizona. As providers of health care, we must rally behind Proposition 303 and vote "yes" to supporting the 60-cent per tobacco pack increase. These additional monies will go toward paying healthcare for working and uninsured families, assist in keeping emergency rooms and trauma centers open, prevent deadly diseases, and support scientific research in Arizona universities on issues such as heart disease, lung disease, cancer and stroke. Media training will be offered to equip nursing volunteers in how to respond to questions by the public and media. This training will also include tips for eliciting support from other health care organizations on Prop 303. Another excellent option available for nurses wanting to get involved in leadership is working to encourage Arizona's Appropriation committee members to provide funding for the Nurse Reinvestment Act. Now that the president has signed this Act, the next step is to get the Appropriations Committee to allocate the necessary money.

A venue for getting involved for those who do not enjoy public speaking is through writing. Articulate articles about the nursing profession powerfully educate others about our cause and our profession. Although it is not pleasant when it happens, even those articles written about nursing which are inaccurate and infuriate us, have a silver lining. These articles provide an opportunity to speak up and educate the public and each other with accurate information and messages we wish to convey. Do not be afraid to write an article for a nursing journal, the Arizona Nurse, an editorial for a local newspaper or even the State Board Newsletter. You will never fully realize the power of the pen if you do not try. Again, what a great way to get involved and "test" the strength of what nurses can do when we all work together. With limitless opportunities and an open playing field, why not carve out a role in nursing leadership for yourself.

Call the AzNA office at 480-831-0404 ext. 104 and let us know where you would like to get involved.

Kathy Player, RN, EdD

Copyright Arizona State Nurses Association Nov 2002
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