What is the main responsibility of a nurse when it comes to patient safety?

The main responsibility of a nurse when it comes to patient safety is to ensure accurate and timely documentation of care. Proper documentation is essential for various reasons; it serves as a legal record of the patient's treatment and condition, helps in tracking changes in the patient's health status, and provides critical information for other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care. Accurate documentation enables effective communication among the healthcare team, which is vital for patient safety and ensuring that appropriate care is delivered in a timely manner.

In contrast, while administering pain medications and providing patient comfort are important aspects of nursing, they are not exclusively related to the broader responsibility of patient safety. Leading a surgical team involves specific roles that go beyond the scope of nursing duties, particularly in a surgical context. The focus of nurse's responsibility in terms of safety is inherently linked to the quality, accuracy, and thoroughness of care documented and communicated throughout the healthcare process.