What examples of advocacy do you see in your own nursing practice? List and discuss 2 examples.
should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
Advocacy in Nursing Practice: Examples and Discussion
Introduction
Advocacy is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and that their rights are protected. Nurses act as intermediaries between patients and the healthcare system, often advocating for patients’ needs, preferences, and well-being. This paper discusses two examples of advocacy in my nursing practice, highlighting how these actions support patient care and align with the principles of nursing ethics.
Example 1: Advocating for Patient Autonomy
One significant example of advocacy in my practice involves advocating for patient autonomy. In healthcare settings, especially in urgent care facilities, patients often face situations where their autonomy is challenged. For instance, there was a case where an elderly patient with multiple comorbidities was brought in by his family for evaluation. The family members insisted on a specific course of treatment that the patient was hesitant to undergo. Recognizing the patient’s right to make informed decisions about his own care, I facilitated a conversation between the patient, his family, and the healthcare team.
I ensured that the patient understood all the available options, the potential outcomes, and the risks associated with each choice. By providing clear and comprehensive information, the patient was empowered to make an informed decision that aligned with his values and preferences. This approach is consistent with the principles outlined in the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics, which emphasizes the importance of respecting patient autonomy and promoting informed decision-making (American Nurses Association, 2015).
Example 2: Advocating for Equitable Access to Care
Another example of advocacy in my practice is advocating for equitable access to care. Working in an urgent care facility, I often encounter patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, including those who are uninsured or underinsured. One notable instance involved a single mother who brought her child in for a routine check-up. The child needed several vaccinations, but the mother expressed concern about the cost and her inability to afford them.
Recognizing the importance of preventive care, I advocated for the patient by connecting the family with community resources that offered low-cost or free vaccinations. Additionally, I worked with our facility’s social worker to explore options for enrolling the family in a health insurance program that would cover future medical expenses. This advocacy not only ensured that the child received necessary care but also helped the family navigate the complex healthcare system.
Advocating for equitable access to care is critical in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health equity involves ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, which requires addressing barriers such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare services (World Health Organization, 2021). By advocating for patients in vulnerable situations, nurses play a vital role in promoting health equity and improving overall health outcomes.
Conclusion
Advocacy is an integral part of nursing practice, requiring nurses to act in the best interests of their patients and address any barriers to optimal care. Through advocating for patient autonomy and equitable access to care, nurses uphold ethical principles and contribute to better health outcomes for their patients. These examples from my nursing practice illustrate the impact of advocacy on patient care and highlight the importance of supporting patients’ rights and needs within the healthcare system.
References
American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. American Nurses Association.
World Health Organization. (2021). Health equity. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/health-equity