This article explores the role of nurses in public policymaking through a constructivist lens. As the largest workforce in the healthcare system, nurses—positioned on the front lines of patient care and in close contact with patients and their families—develop a profound understanding of how public policies affect community health. This unique perspective equips them with valuable nursing insights that not only contribute to enhancing healthcare policies but also support broader health-focused public policies.
However, systemic barriers, limited political awareness, inadequate education and motivation, and a lack of representation in political and policy-making processes often prevent this potential from being fully realized. As a result, the expertise and advocacy skills of nurses remain underutilized.
To empower nurses in this crucial area, it is essential to expand their knowledge of politics and policy, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, remove obstacles to participation, and unlock their capacity to influence public policy. These efforts can strengthen healthcare policies while also improving the overall management of public policies' impact on community health.