What is the primary goal of patient advocacy in nursing?

The primary goal of patient advocacy in nursing centers on ensuring that patients' rights and needs are respected. This involves acting as a voice for patients, helping them navigate through the complexities of the healthcare system, and ensuring they receive the information and care that supports their wellbeing. Advocating for patients means listening to their concerns, understanding their preferences, and communicating these effectively to other members of the healthcare team.

An essential aspect of patient advocacy is to uphold the principles of autonomy and informed consent, allowing patients to make educated decisions regarding their care. By focusing on the rights and needs of patients, nurses contribute to a more respectful and dignified healthcare experience, ultimately improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.

In contrast, promoting institutional policies and managing schedules does not directly prioritize the individual patient's needs. While these aspects are important in the functioning of healthcare systems, they do not embody the essence of patient advocacy. Similarly, increasing hospital profits may involve business decisions that do not necessarily align with advocating for patient-centered care. Therefore, ensuring that patients' rights and needs are respected is the fundamental focus of advocacy in nursing practice.