Assignment: Benchmark Policy Brief

Assignment: Benchmark Policy Brief
Assignment: Benchmark Policy Brief
Chemical exposure is one of the environmental issues within the United States of America’s healthcare system that affect different populations. United States citizens are to thousands of chemicals every single day through drinking water, foods, consumer products and air pollution. Communities are usually unaware of the threats caused by chemical exposures. Chemical released into the environment come from different sources including industries, healthcare companies, human activities such as burning of leaded fuel and pollution of rivers and lakes. Ensuring a clean and a safe environment often prove to be difficult because of continuous human activities that release harmful chemicals into the environment. Almost every activity introduces some of the waste into the environment. Trucks, cars, and buses often release exhaust gases while in operation (Damalas & Koutroubas, 2016). On the other hand, manufacturing and industrial processes usually hazardous and solid wastes. Some of these wastes are composed of harmful chemicals that are dangerous for human life and the environment at large. Exposure can occur when people come into contact with the above harmful chemicals directly or indirectly. Indirect contact may involves coming into contact with the substance which is contaminated.
Chemical exposure often affect different populations from those living in suburbs and slum areas. However, those living in low income areas or slums are at an increased risk of exposure to chemicals. In other words, some communities such as the minority, low income, as well as the indigenous groups always bear greater exposure to diseases. Some studies suggest that the exposure to harmful chemicals are associated with the location or the areas of residence. Individuals living close to the industries, by road sides, and hazardous waste sites are likely to be exposed to harmful chemicals (Ren et al., 2017). Also, individuals or the populations with the pre-existing diseases may become more susceptible to the chemical pollutants released into the environment. For instance, the populations of people suffering from asthma may become more susceptible to the chemical pollutants. Health underlying factors or pre-existing medical conditions can lead to the increased risks of chemical exposure.
Chemical exposure occurs at the local, state and national levels. It may also be regarded as a global health concern given that human activities that lead to the release of chemicals into the environment are experienced everywhere. Therefore, it is necessary for the governments at the state, local, and national level to become highly prepared to deal with the pollution that may lead to advanced health complications. There are various pieces of evidence of chemical exposure. The increased release of harmful substances from different industries is an evidence of chemical exposure. Also, the application of leaded fuel by the motor vehicle is an example of chemical exposure. Lead is harmful for the brain especially among the children. Communities are usually unaware of the potential threats of chemical exposure. Also, the potential health impact may become unclear (Wardrop et al., 2016). American Public Health Association is always committed to supporting the initiatives that enhance surveillance or tracking of the exposure-related health effects. The organization is also working to improve scientific knowledge, reduce further expenditure, and enhance public understanding.
Problem Statement
Chemical exposure continues to affect different populations in the United States. Harmful pollutants often case increased complications especially for the individuals with underlying health factors. There are always both long term and short term impacts of chemical exposure. Some of the problems associated with the exposure to harmful chemicals include organ damage, development of asthma or allergies, weakening of immune system, birth defects and reproductive problems, physical defects in the development of fetus and children, and cancer (Wardrop et al., 2016). The increase in the rate of cancer infections is often attributed to the exposure to chemicals. The increased complications caused by exposure to chemicals can often lead to death. Therefore, there is the need for the authorities to enhance the formulation of policies and strategies that can be used to regulate the release of harmful chemicals into the atmosphere.
Write a 750-1,000-word policy brief that summarizes the issue, explains the effect on the population, and proposes a solution to the issue.
The assesses the following competencies:
1.4 Participate in development to influence nursing practice and health care.
Research public health issues on the “Climate Change” or “Topics and Issues” pages of the American Public Health Association (APHA) website. Investigate a public health issue related to an environmental issue within the U.S. health care delivery system and examine its effect on a specific population.
Follow this outline when writing the policy brief:
1. Describe the policy health issue. Include the following information: (a) what population is affected, (b) at what level does it occur (local, state, or national), and (c) evidence about the issues supported by resources.
2. Create a problem statement.
3. Provide suggestions for addressing the health issue caused by the current policy. Describe what steps are required to initiate policy change. Include necessary stakeholders (government officials, administrator) and budget or funding considerations, if applicable.
4. Discuss the impact on the health care delivery system.
Include four peer-reviewed sources and two other sources to support the policy brief.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, An abstract/thesis is required.
Assessment Description
Research public health issues on the “Climate Change” or “Topics and Issues” pages of the American Public Health Association (APHA) website. Investigate a public health issue related to an environmental issue within the U.S. health care delivery system and examine its effect on a specific population.
Write a 750-1,000-word policy brief that summarizes the issue, explains the effect on the population, and proposes a solution to the issue.
Follow this outline when writing the policy brief:
Describe the policy health issue. Include the following information: (a) what population is affected, (b) at what level does it occur (local, state, or national), and (c) evidence about the issues supported by resources.
Create a problem statement.
Provide suggestions for addressing the health issue caused by the current policy. Describe what steps are required to initiate policy change. Include necessary stakeholders (government officials, administrator) and budget or funding considerations, if applicable.
Discuss the impact on the health care delivery system.
Include three peer-reviewed sources and two other sources to support the policy brief.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Course Resources if you need assistance.
Benchmark Information
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The benchmark assesses the following competencies:
1.4 Participate in health care policy development to influence nursing practice and health care.
Benchmark – Policy Brief – Rubric
Collapse All Benchmark – Policy Brief – RubricCollapse All
Description of Policy Health Issue
24 points
Criteria Description
Description of Policy Health Issue
Excellent
24 points
A detailed description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a strong correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Strong rationale and evidence are offered for support. Insight into the policy health issue is demonstrated.
Good
22.08 points
A general description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Some rationale or detail is needed for clarity.
Satisfactory
21.12 points
A description of the policy issue is summarized. The origin of the policy is described, but it is unclear why the policy creates a health issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs is identified. There are some inaccuracies. More information and rationale are needed.
Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
An incomplete description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of this policy is unclear. There is no evidence that this policy creates a health issue, or that it is an issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs has not been identified. There are major inaccuracies.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Description of the policy issue is omitted.
Problem Statement
24 points
Criteria Description
Problem Statement
Excellent
24 points
A problem statement is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
Good
22.08 points
A problem statement is included, and subject knowledge is competent.
Satisfactory
21.12 points
A problem statement is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.r
Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A problem statement is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
A problem statement is not included.
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (B)
24 points
Criteria Description
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (C1.4)
Excellent
24 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are thoroughly developed with supporting details. All assignment criteria are met and well-supported. The suggestions are well-supported and offer clear steps for initiating policy change.
Good
22.08 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present, and subject knowledge is competent. All assignment criteria are met. The suggestions outline steps for policy change. Minor detail is needed for clarity.
Satisfactory
21.12 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present. Some subject knowledge is evident. Most assignment criteria are met. The suggestions generally outline steps for policy change. More information or evidence is needed.
Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are incomplete. Suggestions do not include all assignment criteria. The suggestions do not support policy change for the policy health issue.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are not included.
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
24 points
Criteria Description
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
Excellent
24 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
Good
22.08 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present, and subject knowledge is competent.
Satisfactory
21.12 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.
Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is not included.
Thesis Development and Purpose
6 points
Criteria Description
Thesis Development and Purpose
Excellent
6 points
Thesis is comprehensive and contains the essence of the paper. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.
Good
5.52 points
Thesis is clear and forecasts the development of the paper. Thesis is descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose.
Satisfactory
5.28 points
Thesis is apparent and appropriate to purpose.
Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Thesis is insufficiently developed or vague. Purpose is not clear.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim.
Argument Logic and Construction
6 points
Criteria Description
Argument Logic and Construction
Excellent
6 points
Clear and convincing argument presents a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.
Good
5.52 points
Argument shows logical progression. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative.
Satisfactory
5.28 points
Argument is orderly but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis.
Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Statement of purpose is not justified by the conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses noncredible sources.
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
6 points
Criteria Description
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
Excellent
6 points
Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.
Good
5.52 points
Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence structures and figures of speech.
Satisfactory
5.28 points
Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but they are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed.
Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice or sentence construction is used.
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
2.4 points
Criteria Description
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
Excellent
2.4 points
All format elements are correct.
Good
2.21 points
Appropriate template is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style.
Satisfactory
2.11 points
Appropriate template is used. Formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present.
Less Than Satisfactory
1.92 points
Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Template is not used appropriately, or documentation format is rarely followed correctly.
Documentation of Sources
3.6 points
Criteria Description
Documentation of Sources (citations, footnotes, references, bibliography, etc., as appropriate to assignment and style)
Excellent
3.6 points
Sources are completely and correctly documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is free of error.
Good
3.31 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is mostly correct.
Satisfactory
3.17 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, although some formatting errors may be present.
Less Than Satisfactory
2.88 points
Documentation of sources is inconsistent or incorrect, as appropriate to assignment and style, with numerous formatting errors.
Unsatisfactory
0 points
Sources are not documented.
You must proofread your paper. But do not strictly rely on your computer’s spell-checker and grammar-checker; failure to do so indicates a lack of effort on your part and you can expect your grade to suffer accordingly. Papers with numerous misspelled words and grammatical mistakes will be penalized. Read over your paper – in silence and then aloud – before handing it in and make corrections as necessary. Often it is advantageous to have a friend proofread your paper for obvious errors. Handwritten corrections are preferable to uncorrected mistakes.
Use a standard 10 to 12 point (10 to 12 characters per inch) typeface. Smaller or compressed type and papers with small margins or single-spacing are hard to read. It is better to let your essay run over the recommended number of pages than to try to compress it into fewer pages.
Likewise, large type, large margins, large indentations, triple-spacing, increased leading (space between lines), increased kerning (space between letters), and any other such attempts at “padding” to increase the length of a paper are unacceptable, wasteful of trees, and will not fool your professor.
The paper must be neatly formatted, double-spaced with a one-inch margin on the top, bottom, and sides of each page. When submitting hard copy, be sure to use white paper and print out using dark ink. If it is hard to read your essay, it will also be hard to follow your argument.
Benchmark – Policy Brief – Rubric
Collapse All Benchmark – Policy Brief – RubricCollapse All
Description of Policy Health Issue
24 points
Criteria Description
Description of Policy Health Issue
5. Excellent
24 points
A detailed description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a strong correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Strong rationale and evidence are offered for support. Insight into the policy health issue is demonstrated.
4. Good
22.08 points
A general description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of the policy is described and a correlation between the policy and the health issue for the population selected is established. The level at which this occurs is discussed. Some rationale or detail is needed for clarity.
3. Satisfactory
21.12 points
A description of the policy issue is summarized. The origin of the policy is described, but it is unclear why the policy creates a health issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs is identified. There are some inaccuracies. More information and rationale are needed.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
An incomplete description of the policy issue is presented. The origin of this policy is unclear. There is no evidence that this policy creates a health issue, or that it is an issue for the population selected. The level at which the issue occurs has not been identified. There are major inaccuracies.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Description of the policy issue is omitted.
Problem Statement
24 points
Criteria Description
Problem Statement
5. Excellent
24 points
A problem statement is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
4. Good
22.08 points
A problem statement is included, and subject knowledge is competent.
3. Satisfactory
21.12 points
A problem statement is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.r
2. Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A problem statement is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
A problem statement is not included.
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (B)
24 points
Criteria Description
Suggestions for Addressing the Policy Health Issue (C1.4)
5. Excellent
24 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are thoroughly developed with supporting details. All assignment criteria are met and well-supported. The suggestions are well-supported and offer clear steps for initiating policy change.
4. Good
22.08 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present, and subject knowledge is competent. All assignment criteria are met. The suggestions outline steps for policy change. Minor detail is needed for clarity.
3. Satisfactory
21.12 points
Suggestions for addressing the issue are present. Some subject knowledge is evident. Most assignment criteria are met. The suggestions generally outline steps for policy change. More information or evidence is needed.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are incomplete. Suggestions do not include all assignment criteria. The suggestions do not support policy change for the policy health issue.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Suggestions for addressing the policy health issue are not included.
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
24 points
Criteria Description
Impact on Health Care Delivery System
5. Excellent
24 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is thoroughly developed with supporting details.
4. Good
22.08 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present, and subject knowledge is competent.
3. Satisfactory
21.12 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present. Some subject knowledge is evident.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
19.2 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is present but lacks detail or is incomplete. Subject knowledge is unclear or inconsistent.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
A discussion on the impact on the health care delivery system is not included.
Thesis Development and Purpose
6 points
Criteria Description
Thesis Development and Purpose
5. Excellent
6 points
Thesis is comprehensive and contains the essence of the paper. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.
4. Good
5.52 points
Thesis is clear and forecasts the development of the paper. Thesis is descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose.
3. Satisfactory
5.28 points
Thesis is apparent and appropriate to purpose.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Thesis is insufficiently developed or vague. Purpose is not clear.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim.
Argument Logic and Construction
6 points
Criteria Description
Argument Logic and Construction
5. Excellent
6 points
Clear and convincing argument presents a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.
4. Good
5.52 points
Argument shows logical progression. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative.
3. Satisfactory
5.28 points
Argument is orderly but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Statement of purpose is not justified by the conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses noncredible sources.
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
6 points
Criteria Description
Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)
5. Excellent
6 points
Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.
4. Good
5.52 points
Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence structures and figures of speech.
3. Satisfactory
5.28 points
Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but they are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
4.8 points
Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice or sentence construction is used.
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
2.4 points
Criteria Description
Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)
5. Excellent
2.4 points
All format elements are correct.
4. Good
2.21 points
Appropriate template is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style.
3. Satisfactory
2.11 points
Appropriate template is used. Formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
1.92 points
Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Template is not used appropriately, or documentation format is rarely followed correctly.
Documentation of Sources
3.6 points
Criteria Description
Documentation of Sources (citations, footnotes, references, bibliography, etc., as appropriate to assignment and style)
5. Excellent
3.6 points
Sources are completely and correctly documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is free of error.
4. Good
3.31 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is mostly correct.
3. Satisfactory
3.17 points
Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, although some formatting errors may be present.
2. Less Than Satisfactory
2.88 points
Documentation of sources is inconsistent or incorrect, as appropriate to assignment and style, with numerous formatting errors.
1. Unsatisfactory
0 points
Sources are not documented.
Total 120 points