What is one major responsibility of nurses as advocates?

One major responsibility of nurses as advocates is to support patients in receiving appropriate care. Advocacy in nursing involves ensuring that patients’ needs and preferences are recognized and addressed throughout their healthcare journey. This responsibility includes educating patients about their rights, informing them about treatment options, and helping them navigate the healthcare system to obtain the best possible care.

Nurses are on the front lines, often being the first point of contact for patients, which puts them in a unique position to understand and identify patient needs. By actively supporting patients, nurses can help ensure that their voices are heard and respected within the healthcare environment. This advocacy role is crucial for fostering trust and promoting positive patient outcomes, as it empowers patients to participate in their own care decisions.

In this context, focusing on patient needs rather than personal or institutional interests highlights the ethical commitment of nurses to prioritize the well-being of those they care for.