This book was written to encourage nurses to become involved in the political processñ by running for office, seeking appointments, or becoming active on some level in local government. The authors interviewed 46 nurses who hold or have run for public officeñ from Members of Congress to local aldermen. Theses nurses share their experiences on everything from getting informed on the issues, getting involved in a political party, presenting the right image, to fundraising. A chapter on nurses who have made use of the public arena in the past includes figures such as Lillian Wald, Lavinia Dock, and Margaret Sanger. Nurses have inside knowledge of health issues and the trust of the public. Here is a handbook that can help nurses realize their leadership potential.

Acknowledgments
Foreword by Claire M. Fagin
Introduction

1. Nurses in the Political Process: The Face That No One Sees
2. Historical Perspective on Nurses Active in the Political Process
3. Nurses in the Political Arena: The Face the Public Sees
4. Nurses' Action on Social Issues
5. Negotiating the Political Process: Lessons Learned
6. Creating Political Opportunities

Appendix A: Individuals Interviewed for this Book
Appendix B: Political Action Databases and Audiovisuals on Nurses and Politics
Appendix C: Campaign Posters and Photographs
Index