November 02, 2025

EP 117: Nurses in Politics

53 minutes

In this conversation, Nurse Erica welcomes Oregon State Representative Travis Nelson to discuss his journey from nursing to politics. They discuss the importance of empowering nurses to run for office to affect legislation and healthcare reform. They explore the challenges nurses face today, including workplace violence and the need for better staffing ratios. Rep. Nelson shares his legislative achievements, including bills focused on unemployment insurance for striking workers, workplace safety, school nursing standards, and the ability for nurses to bill for Medicaid. The discussion emphasizes the importance of union involvement and the need for nurses to engage in politics to advocate for their profession and patients.

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Rep. Travis Nelson RN:

instagram/travisnelson.rn

facebook/RepTravisNelson

X.com/IamTravisNelson

bsky.app/travisnelson.bsky.social

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Representative Travis Nelson

07:25 The Importance of Nurses in Politics

08:30 Current Challenges Facing Nurses in Oregon

09:15 Legislators' Misconceptions About Nursing

11:18 AI in Nursing - Protecting the Title of Nurse

12:45 Safe Staffing Law in Oregon

15:22 Hospital Disclosure of Cost of Scab Nurses

17:55 Support for Striking Workers

20:00 Hannah's Law and School Nursing

24:15 Violence Against Nurses: Three Strikes Felony

25:40 Empowering Nurses Through Direct Billing

28:20 The Role of Unions in Nursing

32:14 Collaboration Between Unions and Legislators

33:25 LGBTQIA+ and Diversity in Politics

38:55 Enema of the Week Award

43:25 Advice for Nurses Entering Politics

48:05 Public Misconceptions About Nursing

49:57 Vision for the Future of Healthcare

51:45 Connecting with Representative Nelson

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DISCLAIMER: This Podcast and all related content published or distributed by or on behalf of Nurse Erica or Nurses Uncorked Podcast is for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only and may include information that is general in nature and that is not specific to you. Any information or opinions expressed or contained herein are not intended to serve as legal advice, or replace medical advice, nor to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, condition, illness or injury, and you should consult the health care professional of your choice regarding all matters concerning your health, including before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program. If you have, or suspect you may have, a health-care emergency, please contact a qualified health care professional for treatment. The views and opinions expressed on Nurses Uncorked do not reflect the views of our employers, professional organizations or affiliates. Any information or opinions provided by guest experts or hosts featured within website or on Nurses Uncorked Podcast are their own; not those of Nurse Erica or Nurses Uncorked LLC. Accordingly, Nurse Erica and Nurses Uncorked cannot be responsible for any results or consequences or actions you may take based on such information or opinions. All content is the sole property of Nurses Uncorked, LLC. All copyrights are reserved and the exclusive property of Nurses Uncorked, LLC.

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By Nurse Erica

4.7

3131 ratings