Message from TASN President
As President of the Tennessee Association of Student Nurses (TASN), I would like to express how honored we were to work with TNA on this event. This annual event has become an important part of student nurse curriculum across the state. It is an opportunity for us to learn firsthand what political involvement means and to speak to our own legislators about our concerns. Students come from all over Tennessee to be a part of the legislative world, and to realize the important role nurses can play in today’s healthcare issues.
Nurses and Students on the Move gives student nurses a rare opportunity to join together as one voice and express our concerns for our patients and our profession. The attendance and interest shown by the student’s was very impressive. And the students definitely took advantage of the day by asking questions, by sharing their opinions on the different bills, and by speaking with their legislators.
TASN looks forward to participating in Nurses and Students on the Move for many years to come. Our hope is that the political energy and enthusiasm these students show will be carried with them into their professional careers. TNA is performing the great deed of encouraging political activeness in future nurses. Students are the future of the nursing profession, therefore, we are fortunate to be in a state were the professional nurses association takes an interest in the development of our abilities to become politically involved.
Kimberly Apple, TASN President
Message from TASN Legislative Director
The participation at Nurses and Students on the Move was tremendous this year. Thanks to all of you who came to learn more about the political process and the important role that we play in that process. Every year there are several important issues on the table that will directly affect our practice. Thanks to TNA and their event, we have learned to stand up and make our voices heard. It is through our efforts that we can stimulate change in the nursing profession and advocate for our patients.
It wasn’t too long ago when gloves weren’t considered to be a necessity in the hospital environment. Lawmakers thought that it would be entirely too expensive to force hospitals to supply gloves for all of its nurses. There were even facilities with the policy that gloves were to be rinsed and hung to dry between uses. Nurses pushed for change and made it happen. Today, we wouldn’t dream of not using a pair of gloves when we need them, nor would we wash and reuse them.
I encourage you all to stay politically active, to talk with your legislators, and to make your voices heard. If we are ever going to lower the nurse to patient ratio, maintain the scope of practice for nurses, and change the face of healthcare, we need to be proactive. Nurses and Students on the Move is a valuable step in our continuing effort to improve our profession. TASN wants to thank TNA and all of the students who make this event possible.
RaChelle Bennett, TASN Legislative Director