#1

In this course wrap-up discussion, please reflect on your experience in the course and address the following items:  

• Identify one of your major takeaways from this course.  
• What aspects of the course helped you achieve this?  
• Choose one of the course student learning outcomes (CSLO). Please explain how you could apply your chosen learning outcome to your practice and/or have achieved this outcome having participated in this class. 
• How will you apply this knowledge to your practice and career? 

This course has been a truly enriching experience, and as I reflect on it, several key aspects stand out. For the course student learning outcome, “Develop your role as a nurse advocate that can impact legislative development (CSLO 4)”, I feel this course has significantly empowered me. While directly impacting legislative development might seem like a distant goal early in one's career, this course has provided me with the foundational understanding and the impetus to actively engage in advocacy. I now recognize that nurses have a powerful voice and a crucial role to play in shaping healthcare policy. I can apply this learning outcome in several ways. On a smaller scale, I can advocate for my patients within the healthcare system by understanding their rights, ensuring their voices are heard, and navigating complex bureaucratic processes. Furthermore, I can engage in professional organizations and participate in initiatives aimed at influencing local and state-level policies related to patient care, working conditions, and public health. This course has instilled in me the importance of staying informed about legislative issues affecting healthcare and the various avenues through which nurses can make their voices heard, whether it's through contacting legislators, participating in grassroots efforts, or contributing to policy briefs. Looking ahead, I believe the knowledge gained in this course will be invaluable in my practice and career. The development of my advocacy skills will empower me to be a more effective voice for my patients and the nursing profession. As I grow in my career, I envision myself becoming increasingly involved in advocacy efforts, contributing to the development of policies that promote patient well-being and advance the practice of nursing. This course has laid a strong foundation for me to become a more knowledgeable and impactful nurse.