Nursing associations are established entities that are dedicated to fostering the professional and personal growth of their members, as well as promoting the overall progression of the nursing profession(Bourgault, 2022). The act of becoming a member of a professional nursing association is of utmost importance in light of the dynamic nature of the nursing profession. Nursing organizations provide nurses with the means to remain informed about contemporary practices, access the insights of prominent figures in the field, and gain insight into the innovative approaches and advancements in patient care being implemented by hospitals nationwide. The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) is the professional nursing organization that I would want to join. The purpose of this paper is to describe the AACN and highlight its benefits for participants.
The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)
The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is the biggest specialty nursing organization in the world and has a remarkable network of nurses who specialize in acute and critical care, providing steadfast professional and social support to provide the best care for patients (Key Statements, Beliefs, and Philosophies of the AACN, 2020). The AACN played a pioneering role in acknowledging the significance and attributes of a conducive work environment. The primary mission of the AACN is to advance its mission of equipping critical care nurses with the necessary technical expertise and authority to fulfill their commitments to patients and their loved ones during times of utmost vulnerability.
The primary objective of the AACN is to cultivate a healthcare framework that optimizes the provision of specialized acute and critical care nursing services to effectively address the requirements of patients as well as their families(Ulrich et al., 2019). The principles of accountability, governance, creativity, and cooperation serve as the governing framework for AACN as it endeavors to advance its goal and vision. The aforementioned values are deeply rooted in the historical, traditional, and cultural aspects of the Association.
Benefits of AACN Membership
Members of the AACN have the opportunity to access a range of insurance benefits at reduced rates, which encompass professional liability insurance, long-term care insurance, and pet insurance (Hickey, 2019). AACN members are entitled to various additional benefits, such as unlimited access to free continuing education opportunities. Furthermore, members receive complimentary subscriptions to AACN’s esteemed peer-reviewed journals. The AACN also offers discounts on a wide range of products and events, such as the annual NTI Conference, certification examinations and study resources, pocket cards, and items available in the online store(Ulrich et al., 2019). The membership offered by the AACN also includes access to a personalized online library called “Collections,” which contains a selection of AACN resources and information tailored to individual preferences. Additionally, members can engage in a Peer Support Community to connect with others in the field.
Importance of Networking and Networking Opportunities for Members
Through networking, nurses may participate and become engaged. More than 865 nursing programs at public and private colleges around the country are represented by AACN today(Bourgault & Goforth, 2021). A variety of undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs are offered by these institutions. The organization provides comprehensive support to all stakeholders within the academic realm, encompassing professors, administrative staff, and students. However, it is worth noting that the dean or the highest-ranking nursing administrator assumes the role of the organization’s spokesperson. AACN maintains eight Leadership Networks to support nursing school professors and staff involved in various areas such as research, faculty practice, leadership in organizational business operations, graduate-level recruiting, and communications/development (Gabbard et al., 2021). An annual gathering of participants is held at each network.
Health Care Changes and Changes to Practice
The AACN makes sure that its members are informed on the most recent developments in healthcare as well as changes to practices that affect their sector by offering online resources, and publications, as well as holding conferences and seminars(AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice, 2019). For instance, the group helps professionals and recent graduates locate new jobs and identify their careers. To guarantee that specialists can work in unfavorable circumstances and contribute to the advancement of t
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