35th Annual APRN Legislative Update: Updates to APRN practice authority in the United States.

ABSTRACT: Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) continue to make history by being at the forefront of legislative victories that have culminated in increased patient access to care. Modernization of APRN practice in various states, some influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in easing of regulations, including those relating to supervision, collaboration, license renewal, and portability, in reduced and restricted practice settings.

Making a difference by serving in public office: Why we need more nurses in politics.

ABSTRACT: Nursing is the most trusted profession in the United States. Most nurses have the innate desire to care for others and make a difference in people's lives. Nurses are highly educated through rigorous programs that teach not only the physical sciences but also accountability, responsibility, and duty. Similarly, elected officials are accountable, have a duty to represent their constituents, and keep their best interests at the forefront of their agenda. The characteristics of nurses include higher education, integrity, responsibility, and compassion. Each one of these elements rests on the other to build a solid foundation of leadership. Nurses are natural leaders, and government needs more nurses to get involved and provide leadership benefits to our communities, including the local level where political decisions affect us all more personally. One of the responsibilities of nursing is to take an active role in politics and policy development. Nurses are a group of extraordinary individuals who are well suited to lead through elected office and influence policies that externally shape our practice and the well-being of our patients.

Notalgia paresthetica: An underdiagnosed condition in primary care.

ABSTRACT: Notalgia paresthetica is a perplexing diagnosis in the primary care setting. Chronic itching, paresthesia, or pain causes discomfort in patients who suffer with notalgia paresthetica and it is thought to be a common but underdiagnosed condition. Recognition of this dermatologic condition can lead to reassurance and relief for affected patients.