Are you a member of your state's APN organization?

[yellow finch, BSN, RN]

Although I'm still a student, I went ahead and joined the GA UAPRN organization. Partly to network with local APNs, but also to learn more about the current legislative needs and changes to be made. I'd very much like to be a part of the group that can lead the way for greater possibilities for APNs and know what my rights and boundaries will be once in practice.

If nothing else, it would be nice to identify prospective preceptors and job prospects. Sometimes it helps to have one foot halfway through the door so that the day I pass my boards I'll have some idea of where I might work.

I'm curious to know if any of you are members of your state or local organization and what you've gained from joining.

:paw:

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

I did the same as you did. I joined our state NP association as a student. Not only did I get discounted student membership rate, I also was able to network with many practicing NP's in my state. It helped with finding preceptors that fit my goals better (although our school would gladly arrange for preceptors if we prefer it that way). It also helped me know what legislation the group was working on that can affect my future practice as an NP. I am no longer a member due to time constraints.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Yes indeed and I must preface the rest of my post with the statement that I am the most apolitical person on the face of the earth! That said:

1. I joined the ISAPN (Il Society of Advanced Practice Nurses) in 2005 as a student.

2. I'm now on the state-wide membership committee.

3. I lobbied at the state capitol in April 07 in order to help to explain our wishes for the new nurse practice act. Our new nurse practice act was passed in Oct 07 and we were given schedule II prescriptive authority which helps me tremendously when my patients go to hospice - I can provide them the basic meds prior to hospice's arrival.

4. The state-wide conferences are wonderfully well-organized and informative too.

I really urge all APNs to join their state's organization. The entire reason that nurses are so devisive amongst ourselves is that we are not organized. The American Medical Association is headquarter'd in Chicago and they fought against the nurse practice act. However, the legislators listened to those of us that work at the bedside.

So...join!!!