Some stakeholders and agencies employ monitoring and tracking systems to support safe environmental conditions. Environmental protection organizations use an air quality index to help the general public quickly identify unhealthy air quality levels. The method advises persons who are more vulnerable to injury to be more cautious when out in public. The EPA is particularly concerned about diesel exhaust emissions from automobiles, trains, and ships, which have been linked to cancer in humans.
A Step-by-Step Manual for Changing Policies
The creation of policies can significantly improve the health of a population. Professionals in the nursing and public health fields are crucial to the creation of public policy. Finding the issue is the first step. air pollution stakeholders should take the public’s health into
The benchmark assesses the following competencies:
1.4 Participate in health care policy development to influence nursing practice and health care.
Research public health issues on the “Climate Change” or “Topics and Issues” pages of the American Public Health Association (APHA) website. Investigate a public health issue related to an environmental issue within the U.S. health care delivery system and examine its effect on a specific population.
Write a 750-1,000-word policy brief that summarizes the issue, explains the effect on the population, and proposes a solution to the issue.
Also Read: NRS 428 Benchmark – Community Teaching Plan Community Teaching Work Plan Proposal
Follow this outline when writing the policy brief:
1. Describe the policy health issue. Include the following information: (a) what population is affected, (b) at what level does it occur (local, state, or national), and (c) evidence about the issues supported by resources.
2. Create a problem statement.
3. Provide suggestions for addressing the health issue caused by the current policy. Describe what steps are required to initiate policy change. Include necessary stakeholders (government officials, administrator) and budget or funding considerations, if applicable.
4. Discuss the impact on the health care delivery system.
Include four peer-reviewed sources and two other sources to support the policy brief.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, An abstract/thesis is required. Benchmark – Policy Brief assignment
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Course Materials if you need assistance.
Benchmark Information
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The benchmark assesses the following competencies:
1.4 Participate in health care policy development to influence nursing practice and health care.
Benchmark-Policy Brief
The current state of climate change is deemed to be an emergency in terms of public health. Changing weather patterns, increased air pollution, and other aspects of global warming affect every neighborhood in the world. Environmental policies to improve the delivery of health care services in the national health care system can be influenced by the nursing profession. In the case of air pollution, for example, there is widespread concern on a global scale. It has an impact on where people live and how they perceive the weather and environment (Benjamin, 2016). Different groups and communities’ needs and perspectives are explored in this research in order to better understand environmental healthcare policies and the problems they cause.
Climate change has a wide range of consequences on human health. There are numerous health and environmental consequences of ozone depletion, including asthma attacks, cardiovascular illness, heat, and storms. In light of these unfavorable results, a number of relevant and active health organizations have come out in favor of the Climate Action Now Act. The policy ensures that the government adheres to the Paris agreement’s principles and scientific goals (Friel, 2019). Methods and tactics to meet targets as well as defending public health from climate change’s detrimental effects are also determined.
Every walk of life is touched by this problem. Increased health outcomes have an impact on how people seek out medical care. People of all socioeconomic backgrounds, including children, adults, women, and teenagers, are impacted by severe weather events like heat waves and thunderstorms. The disadvantaged in society, on the other hand, bear the brunt of the consequences. They face actual and immediate health challenges because the hazards are scientifically proven and not merely theoretical. Adverse climate change affects vulnerable groups the most, according to Johnson and Lichtveld (2017a). In addition, newborns, children, low-income communities, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change and weather changes. There is a correlation between changes in air quality and pollution. Morbidity and mortality linked to the depletion of the ozone layer would rise along with other health problems as a result.
Many factors contribute to the problem of air pollution. When coal and gas are burned, hazardous pollutants are released. As a result, the quality of air that is safe to breathe and live in decreases. The dangerous allergens and chemicals that can enter the air increase as the temperature rises. Greater asthma attacks and allergy reactions, for example, are linked to pollen seasons that last longer in hotter climates. As a result, the amount of time spent at work and school will be reduced (Tian & Sun, 2017).
Health Issues and Potential Solutions
Early, deliberate, and responsible action can protect people’s health and safety. Policymakers are taking steps to mitigate the effects of climate change now and in the future in order to improve public health. Strong climate-health adaptation and preparedness initiatives can reduce carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere. People should ride bicycles or walk instead of relying on automobiles and machinery to get around. The plan encourages physical activity in addition to lowering traffic-related emissions. Individuals who take this step may also be able to avoid problems such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease (Wang, 2020).
The federal regulations and ozone layer requirements aren’t being followed by community hospitals, which results in more people being admitted and using the emergency room. Private and state insurers have had to foot the tab for tens of thousands of dollars in hospital bills because of these admissions. Patients’ insurance premiums rose by more than $2,015,880 as a result of the increase in environmental illness avoidable diseases. As the number of people seeking medical treatment rises, so too will the need for health care workers. As a result of this situation, there is a shortage of human resources, which results in poor service quality (Wang, 2020).
Conclusion
Human health suffers as a result of climate change. The health care system is heavily influenced by air pollution. Health care providers and government officials should work together to design policies that will lead to more peaceful solutions. For the sake of public and environmental health, it is imperative that stakeholders take the lead in policy formation and change.
References
BENJAMIN, G. C. (2016). Shelter in the storm: Health care systems and climate change. The Milbank Quarterly, 94(1), 18-22. https://doi.org/10.1111/1468-0009.12174
Friel, S. (2019). Climate change, global justice, and health inequities. Climate Change and the People’s Health, 1-56. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780190492731.003.0001
Johnson, B. L., & Lichtveld, M. Y. (2017). Steps in environmental health Policymaking. Environmental Policy and Public Health, 25-50. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781351228473-2
Tian, L., & Sun, S. (2017). Comparison of health impact of air pollution between China and other countries. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 215-232. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-5657-4_9
Wang, J. (2020). Climate-smart health care: The power of health care action on air pollution and climate change. European Journal of Public Health, 30(Supplement_5). https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckaa165.299
Benchmark – Policy Brief assignment
Course Code Class Code Assignment Title Total Points
NRS-428VN NRS-428VN-O503 Benchmark – Policy Brief 120.0
Criteria Percentage Unsatisfactory (0.00%) Less Than Satisfactory (80.00%) Satisfactory (88.00%) Good (92.00%) Excellent (100.00%)
Content 80.0%
Description of Policy Health Issue 20.0% Description of the policy issue is omitted. An incomplete description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of this policy is unclear. There is no evidence that this policy creates a health issue, or that it is an issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs has not been identified. There are major inaccuracies. A description of the policy issue is summarized. The origin of the policy is described, but it is unclear why the policy creates a health issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs is identified. There are some inaccuracies. More information and rationale are needed. A general description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Some rationale or detail is needed for clarity. A detailed description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a strong correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Strong rationale and evidence are offered for support. Insight into the policy health issue is demonstrated.
Problem Statement 20.0% A problem statement is not included. A problem statement is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent. A problem statement is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.r A problem statement is included, and subject knowledge is competent. A problem statement is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (C 1.4 Participate in health care policy development to influence nursing practice and health care.) 20.0% Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are not included. Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are incomplete. Suggestions do not include all assignment criteria. The suggestions do not support policy change for the policy health issue. Suggestions for addressing the issue are present. Some subject knowledge is evident. Most assignment criteria are met. The suggestions generally outline steps for policy change. More information or evidence is needed. Suggestions for addressing the issue are present, and subject knowledge is competent. All assignment criteria are met. The suggestions outline steps for policy change. Minor detail is needed for clarity. Suggestions for addressing the issue are thoroughly developed with supporting details. All assignment criteria are met and well-supported. The suggestions are well-supported and offer clear steps for initiating policy change.
Impact on Health Care Delivery System 20.0% A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is not included. A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent. A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present. Some subject knowledge is evident. A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present, and subject knowledge is competent. A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
Organization, Effectiveness, and Format 20.0%
Thesis Development and Purpose 5.0% Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim. Thesis is insufficiently developed or vague. Purpose is not clear. Thesis is apparent and appropriate to purpose. Thesis is clear and forecasts the development of the paper. Thesis is descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose. Thesis is comprehensive and contains the essence of the paper. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.
Argument Logic and Construction 5.0% Statement of purpose is not justified by the conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses noncredible sources. Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility. Argument is orderly but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis. Argument shows logical progression. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative. Clear and convincing argument presents a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use) 5.0% Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice or sentence construction is used. Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied. Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but they are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed. Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence structures and figures of speech. Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment) 2.0% Template is not used appropriately, or documentation format is rarely followed correctly. Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent. Appropriate template is used. Formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present. Appropriate template is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style. All format elements are correct.
Documentation of Sources (citations, footnotes, references, bibliography, etc., as appropriate to assignment and style) 3.0% Sources are not documented. Documentation of sources is inconsistent or incorrect, as appropriate to assignment and style, with numerous formatting errors. Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, although some formatting errors may be present. Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is mostly correct. Sources are completely and correctly documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is free of error.
Benchmark – Policy Brief – Rubric
Collapse All Benchmark – Policy Brief – RubricCollapse All
Description of Policy Health Issue
24 points
Criteria Description
Description of Policy Health Issue
- Excellent
24 points
A detailed description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a strong correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Strong rationale and evidence are offered for support. Insight into the policy health issue is demonstrated.
- Good
22.08 points
A general description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Some rationale or detail is needed for clarity.
- Satisfactory
21.12 points
A description of the policy issue is summarized. The origin of the policy is described, but it is unclear why the policy creates a health issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs is identified. There are some inaccuracies. More information and rationale are needed.
- Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
An incomplete description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of this policy is unclear. There is no evidence that this policy creates a health issue, or that it is an issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs has not been identified. There are major inaccuracies.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Description of the policy issue is omitted.
Problem Statement
24 points
Criteria Description
Problem Statement
- Excellent
24 points
A problem statement is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
- Good
22.08 points
A problem statement is included, and subject knowledge is competent.
- Satisfactory
21.12 points
A problem statement is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.r
- Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A problem statement is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
A problem statement is not included.
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (B)
24 points
Criteria Description
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (C1.4)
- Excellent
24 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are thoroughly developed with supporting details. All assignment criteria are met and well-supported. The suggestions are well-supported and offer clear steps for initiating policy change.
- Good
22.08 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present, and subject knowledge is competent. All assignment criteria are met. The suggestions outline steps for policy change. Minor detail is needed for clarity.
- Satisfactory
21.12 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present. Some subject knowledge is evident. Most assignment criteria are met. The suggestions generally outline steps for policy change. More information or evidence is needed.
- Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are incomplete. Suggestions do not include all assignment criteria. The suggestions do not support policy change for the policy health issue.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are not included.
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
24 points
Criteria Description
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
- Excellent
24 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
- Good
22.08 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present, and subject knowledge is competent.
- Satisfactory
21.12 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.
- Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is not included.
Thesis Development and Purpose
6 points
Criteria Description
Thesis Development and Purpose
- Excellent
6 points
Thesis is comprehensive and contains the essence of the paper. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.
- Good
5.52 points
Thesis is clear and forecasts the development of the paper. Thesis is descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose.
- Satisfactory
5.28 points
Thesis is apparent and appropriate to purpose.
- Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Thesis is insufficiently developed or vague. Purpose is not clear.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim.
Argument Logic and Construction
6 points
Criteria Description
Argument Logic and Construction
- Excellent
6 points
Clear and convincing argument presents a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.
- Good
5.52 points
Argument shows logical progression. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative.
- Satisfactory
5.28 points
Argument is orderly but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis.
- Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Statement of purpose is not justified by the conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses noncredible sources.
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
6 points
Criteria Description
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
- Excellent
6 points
Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.
- Good
5.52 points
Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence structures and figures of speech.
- Satisfactory
5.28 points
Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but they are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed.
- Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice or sentence construction is used.
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
2.4 points
Criteria Description
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
- Excellent
2.4 points
All format elements are correct.
- Good
2.21 points
Appropriate template is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style.
- Satisfactory
2.11 points
Appropriate template is used. Formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present.
- Less Than Satisfactory
1.92 points
Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Template is not used appropriately, or documentation format is rarely followed correctly.
Documentation of Sources
3.6 points
Criteria Description
Documentation of Sources (citations, footnotes, references, bibliography, etc., as appropriate to assignment and style)
- Excellent
3.6 points
Sources are completely and correctly documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is free of error.
- Good
3.31 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is mostly correct.
- Satisfactory
3.17 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, although some formatting errors may be present.
- Less Than Satisfactory
2.88 points
Documentation of sources is inconsistent or incorrect, as appropriate to assignment and style, with numerous formatting errors.
- Unsatisfactory
0 points
Sources are not documented.
Compare vulnerable populations. Describe an example of one of these groups in the United States or from another country. Explain why the population is designated as “vulnerable.” Include the number of individuals belonging to this group and the specific challenges or issues involved. Discuss why these populations are unable to advocate for themselves, the ethical issues that must be considered when working with these groups, and how nursing advocacy would be beneficial.
Certain populations are more vulnerable to risk factors that can negatively affect their health, which leads to more health issues. In the United States and around the world one of the most vulnerable populations are low-income and homeless individuals. “It is estimated that about 2 percent of the world population is homeless or about 154 million.” Also, “another billion people currently live without adequate shelter, and by 2050, it’s believed that number will reach close to three billion.” (Brannon, 2019) These individuals are more vulnerable because in many cases, they struggle and are unable to afford to have access to basic needs such as clean water, nutrition, healthcare, education, clothing, and shelter. This puts them at a greater risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and long-term stress and behavioral health issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse problems. (Joszt, 2018) In many cases, individuals living in poverty are unable to advocate for themselves to get the resources that they need. This can be due to mental illness, physical disability, or other condition that makes it harder or prevent them from being able to advocate for themselves and their needs. The main ethical issue that should be considered with this population is their need for good healthcare vs. lack of access to healthcare needs. To address this issue, nurses can advocate for the patient and set the patient up with a social worker. A social worker can help the patient gain access to basic needs like food, clothing, shelter, and also social benefits including healthcare. They can help the patient gain these needs through social service agencies, community service agencies, and international aid organizations. (Miller, 2021) This can help patients get the important resources they need so that they can lower the adverse health risks associated with poverty and improve and maintain good health.
References:
Brannon, A. (2019, September 26). Homelessness statistics reveal a problem that’s bigger than us, but not beyond solving. New Story. Retrieved January 10, 2022, from https://newstorycharity.org/homelessness-statistics/
Joszt, L. (2018, July 20). 5 vulnerable populations in healthcare. AJMC. Retrieved January 10, 2022, from
https://www.ajmc.com/view/5-vulnerable-populations-in-healthcare
Miller, A. (2021). Social workers’ roles in helping the poor. Work – Chron.com. Retrieved January 10, 2022, from https://work.chron.com/social-workers-roles-helping-poor-24938.html
