Question

Discuss the importance of advocacy as it pertains to patient care. What is the nurse's role in patient advocacy? Describe a situation in which you were involved with patient advocacy. Explain what the advocacy accomplished for the patient, and what the repercussions would have been if the patient would not have had an advocate.

Answer 1

Advocacy:

Advocacy in all it forms seeks to ensure that people, that is those who are particularly vulnerable to society.

Importance of advocacy:

Have the voice heard on .

Consider their wish on patient care.

Allow the patient to take their own decision.

Situations of advocacy:

Area of specialization in health care conceited with patient, survivor and care giver.

Informed decision in patient care.

Navigate complex medical system.

Helping the patient make ethical decision.

Protecting patient rights. Example: accepting treatment, refusal of treatment.

Accomplishment of advocacy:

1. Informed consent before procedure.

2. Accept if the refusing treatment.

3. Following living will on patient treatment.

4. Patient independence.

5. Equal opportunities.

6. Patient centered approach.

7. Empowerment.

8. Accessibility

9. Accountability.

Repercussions if patient would not be advocate:

1. Nurse reports frustration

2. Nurse will have anger.

3. Lack of patient care satisfaction.

4. Impaired decision making process.

5. Lack of confidence both patient and nurse.