Policymaking, politics, and the neuroscience nurse.

To fulfill social contracts to those suffering from neurological disease or trauma and to thrive as professionals, neuroscience nurses must enter the political arena. To do so requires an understanding of policy, politics, and policymaking in our society. Social changes affecting neuroscience nursing, including increases in the aged and in minority populations and changes in state and local health care policies are discussed. Ways for neuroscience nurses to become politically active are presented.