Abstract
The number of residents with complex medical needs and acuity levels has been increasing in nursing homes in this country. The general philosophy of care has evolved from one of custodial care to promoting each resident’s highest level of functioning. The author was part of a task force process mandated by the legislature in Maryland to study the quality of nursing home care in the state. The final recommendations made by the task force took form in legislative proposals submitted to the General Assembly in the 2000 legislative session and resulted in the passage of six pieces of legislation directed at improving the quality of care in Maryland nursing home facilities. The author provides an excellent case example of how nurses can use their expertise and political skills to contribute successfully to the policy process.
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