Title: Examples of Patient Advocacy in Nursing: Helping Voices
Headings: Helping Hands, Helping Voices: Examples of Patient Advocacy in Nursing
Helping Hands, Helping Voices: Examples of Patient Advocacy in Nursing
Patient Advocacy Defined
Common Types of Advocacy
Advocacy with the Medical Facility
Advocacy with the Legal System
Advocacy with Families
The Ethics of Patient Advocacy in Nursing
Key Skills for Nurse Advocacy
Become a Nurse Advocate for Patients
Recommended Readings
Sources

Content: If you are motivated to act as an ally for patients, read on for examples of patient advocacy in nursing, typical ethical issues, and key skills for success as a health care ally. Patient Advocacy Defined
Advocates are people who speak on behalf of those whose voices aren’t heard. They work with decision-makers, such as physicians and legislative bodies, to solve problems and propose alternatives for those in need. For nurses, this may involve advocating for children, mentally ill patients, and patients who are uninformed about health care policies and their own rights. Patient advocacy is a key part of nursing practice, and it isn’t optional. It’s included in the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics, which states: “ The nurse promotes, advocates for, and protects the rights, health, and safety of the patient.” The advocacy process has four stages, according to an article in Nursing2019: 1. Evaluate patients’ needs, taking into account their medical backgrounds, personal values, and level of awareness.