Advocacy
Acting to protect and promote a client's rights, wishes, and best interests.
Advocacy is acting to protect and promote a client’s rights, wishes, and best interests. It includes ensuring the client has the information needed for informed decisions, supporting their autonomy even when their choice differs from what the team recommends, and speaking up about unsafe conditions or care. When a client’s wishes conflict with the plan of care, the nurse advocates for the client — clarifying with and, if necessary, challenging the provider on the client’s behalf.