What does the term "patient advocacy" refer to in nursing?

The term "patient advocacy" in nursing primarily refers to supporting patient needs and preferences. Advocacy involves acting on behalf of the patient to ensure that their rights, choices, and interests are respected within the healthcare setting. This can mean facilitating communication between the patient and healthcare providers, informing patients about their treatment options, helping them navigate the healthcare system, and standing up for their preferences regarding care.

In the context of nursing, being an advocate means ensuring the patient’s voice is heard and that their values and wishes are considered in their care plan. This is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice because it focuses on the whole person, recognizing that healthcare is not solely about treatment options but also about understanding what is most important to the patient.