125 Guardians of early years – bridging policy and practice for toddler safety through nursing expertise

<h3>Background</h3> In Israel, children comprise 32.8% of the population. About 50% of unintentional deaths in children are attributed to toddlers aged 0–4 years, therefore, the promotion of child safety is warranted. In 2017, a government decision led to the establishment and funding of the National Child Safety Program. Furthermore, in line with the WHO and OECD objectives, the Israeli Ministry of Health (MOH) initiated a national multidisciplinary program ‘Focus: The Young Family’ for the community ‘Drop of Milk’ clinics (mother and child preventive health clinics). <h3>Objective</h3> To develop and implement a nursing national policy in prevention of toddlers’ unintentional injuries: Formation of a national nursing regulatory standard, and nationwide implementation of injury prevention programs sensitive to diverse and at-risk populations <h3>Policy Analysis</h3> The WHO’s ‘Road Map’ offered a framework in which the Nursing Division (MOH) is a key partner in its consolidation and operation. In accord with MOH program, national committees were established to promote child safety with the participation of pediatric nurses representing clinical practice, education, academic, governmental, and child safety organizations. The first committee, established in 2018, outlined a professional regulatory standard for parental health education (age-appropriate). In 2022, a second committee was established with 44 safety trust nurse leaders representing most health organizations. To create an impact, the objectives were: Creating a professional network for learning, sharing, and partnership Empowerment to form a child safety policy in their organization Forming, implementing, and monitoring an organizational annual work plan Leading an organizational child safety forum providing knowledge, resources, and partnerships Promoting research and evidence-based knowledge <h3>Policy Implications</h3> After one year of activity, data-driven intervention plans were established. Fifteen local programs began to operate, such as the automation of year-round safety messages to parents’ mobile phones, gamification for ultra-orthodox religious families, Arab community safety plan with municipality engagement, etc. Nurses countrywide form a meaningful force for child safety promotion and practices. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Policy implementation is a multi-step process requiring long-term leadership and partnership. Nurses’ professional network involved with stakeholders is effective and can produce a sustainable intervention impact in divers and high-risk population groups.