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Nurses can lobby Congress on a variety of policy issues related to healthcare, patient safety, and nursing practice. Some examples include:

1. Safe staffing ratios: Nurses can advocate for legislation that mandates minimum nurse-to-patient staffing ratios to ensure safe and effective patient care.
2. Nursing education and workforce development: Nurses can lobby for policies that support nursing education and training programs, as well as initiatives to address the nursing shortage and ensure an adequate supply of qualified nurses in the workforce.
3. Healthcare reform: Nurses can advocate for policies that promote healthcare access and affordability, such as expanding Medicaid, implementing universal healthcare coverage, and addressing healthcare disparities.

To have their voices heard, nurses can use a variety of strategies, including:

1. Grassroots advocacy: Nurses can engage in grassroots lobbying by contacting their elected representatives, attending town hall meetings, and participating in rallies or protests.
2. Professional organizations: Nurses can join professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association or National Student Nurses’ Association, which have established advocacy programs and lobbying efforts.
3. Social media: Nurses can use social media platforms to raise awareness about policy issues and connect with other advocates, policymakers, and healthcare professionals.

Sources:

1. “Policy and Advocacy” by the American Nurses Association. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/
2. “Nursing Advocacy: How to Make Your Voice Heard” by Minority Nurse. Retrieved from https://minoritynurse.com/nursing-advocacy-how-to-make-your-voice-heard/
3. “Nurses are vital voices in healthcare policy debates” by Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nurses-are-vital-voices-in-healthcare-policy-debates-2019101618009