The Nurse’s Role in Promoting Patient Rights

As a nurse, you are the individual who has the most extensive relationship with a patient. In this week’s articles, you read about both NDNQI nurse-specific indicators and the key role nurses play as advocates for patient rights. To assist nurses in being better prepared for this role, programs such as Patient Care Partnership provide guidance. Review the Patient Care Partnership Web site presented in this week’s Resources. In addition, reflect on the media presentation and the information shared by Ms. Manna on patient’s rights. Then, reflect on a situation in your work setting in which a patient did not know his or her rights or responsibilities. If you have not encountered this situation, reflect on a scenario presented in the readings. With these thoughts in mind, respond to the following:

• What are some nursing practices you could use to promote patient rights and responsibilities?