Describe the term "advocacy" in nursing.

Advocacy in nursing refers to the active support and promotion of a patient’s rights and interests. This involves ensuring that patients receive appropriate care, understand their treatment options, and have their preferences respected. Nurses play a vital role in advocating for their patients by listening to their concerns, providing necessary information, and helping them navigate the healthcare system.

The practice of advocacy is essential as it empowers patients, helps them make informed decisions about their health care, and ensures that they are treated with dignity and respect. It reinforces the nurse's role as a crucial mediator between the patient and the complexities of the healthcare environment, ensuring that the patient's voice is heard and considered in all aspects of their care.

In contrast, implementing care plans focuses on the execution of the healthcare provider's strategies for treatment, documenting patient information involves recording data to maintain accurate medical records, and training new staff members pertains to educating organizational personnel about nursing practices and hospital protocols. These tasks, while essential to nursing, do not encompass the broader and critical aspect of advocacy that prioritizes patient autonomy and welfare.