Discussion: The Nurse's Role in Promoting Patient Rights

As a nurse, you are the individual who has the most extensive relationship with a patient.

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.

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?
Support your response with references from the professional nursing literature

250-350 words (not including the full references). Keep your responses succinct. Your written assignments must follow APA guidelines

In this week's media, Ms. Santiago and Ms. Johnson continue the discussion on patient-centered care and examine the positive outcomes of involving patients in their care decisions. Then, Dr. Rempher and Ms. Manna discuss how data from the NDNQI guides the development of action plans which can lead to improved nursing practice and patient outcomes. Ms. Manna goes on to share her expertise on advocating for patients' rights from her experience of working with vulnerable populations.

Laureate Education (Producer). (2009). Topics in clinical nursing: Accountability and nursing practice. Baltimore, MD: Author.