In the context of nursing care, what does 'advocacy' mean?

Advocacy in nursing refers to the active support and promotion of the patient's interests, ensuring their needs and rights are respected within the healthcare system. This role includes empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care and acting on their behalf when necessary. Nurses advocate for patient safety, quality of care, and ethical treatment, highlighting the importance of the patient's perspective in their care plan.

While providing medical interventions, documenting patient concerns, and assessing symptoms are integral aspects of nursing practice, they do not encompass the broader role of advocacy. Advocacy focuses on the nurse's responsibility to stand up for the patients’ well-being, ensuring that their voices are heard and their preferences are taken into account in all healthcare decisions. This function is essential for fostering trust and collaboration between patients and healthcare providers.