What is the essence of patient advocacy in nursing?

Patient advocacy in nursing fundamentally revolves around defending patients’ rights and preferences. This means that nurses play a critical role in ensuring that patients’ voices are heard and that their wishes and needs are prioritized in their care. Advocating for patients involves providing them with information about their treatment options, helping them understand their rights, and supporting them in making decisions about their own healthcare.

Nurses act as intermediaries between patients and the broader healthcare system, guiding patients through complex processes and ensuring that their values are respected. This advocacy is essential for promoting ethical care, improving patient outcomes, and fostering a trusting nurse-patient relationship. By placing the patient's needs and preferences at the forefront, nurses help to ensure that care is tailored and responsive to individual patients, ultimately contributing to a higher standard of care.