Know the issue. Although you do not need to be an expert on every aspect of a bill, you need to know enough about the issue it is intended to resolve. MNA issue papers and action alerts provide this information. In addition, you can draw from your own nursing experiences. Try to anticipate the arguments against your position, and be prepared to address them.
Nothing destroys credibility faster than inaccurate information.
Be concise, stick to basics, and stay focused. Most legislators do not have a health care background. Make no assumptions about their level of knowledge of health care systems, financing, or delivery. Use the same principles you use when educating your patients. You may not be able to answer all of the legislator's questions, but offer to find the answers whenever possible.