What is an example of nursing advocacy that a nurse should communicate to a newly licensed nurse?

Nursing advocacy involves supporting and representing the best interests of patients in the healthcare system. One of the key aspects of advocacy is ensuring that patients are fully informed about their treatment options and the implications of those options. When a nurse ensures that a client has given informed consent for care, they are upholding the ethical principle of autonomy, which is fundamental in nursing practice. This process involves providing the patient with comprehensive information regarding their diagnosis, proposed treatments, potential benefits, risks, and alternatives, thus empowering patients to make well-informed decisions about their health.

This advocacy not only helps to build trust between the nurse and the patient but also aligns with legal and ethical standards within the healthcare profession. A nurse who ensures informed consent is taking active steps to protect the patient’s rights and promote their capacity for self-determination, which is essential in fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare.

In contrast, facilitating noncompliance, overriding patient decisions, and informing clients about their medical failures do not exemplify nursing advocacy effectively. These actions may disregard patient autonomy and could potentially lead to negative outcomes in patient relationships and care.