What is the primary focus of patient advocacy in nursing?

The primary focus of patient advocacy in nursing is to protect and promote patient rights and interests. This involves ensuring that patients receive appropriate care and are treated with respect and dignity. Advocates in nursing play a crucial role in identifying and addressing the needs, concerns, and preferences of patients. They serve as a voice for patients, especially when patients may not be able to express their needs themselves due to various reasons such as being in a vulnerable state or having limited health literacy.

Effective patient advocacy includes educating patients about their rights, helping them make informed decisions about their care, and standing up against any barriers that might prevent them from receiving the care they need. This commitment to patients' well-being and autonomy is what distinguishes patient advocacy as a vital aspect of nursing practice.

In contrast, other options focus on areas that, while important, do not center on the core essence of patient advocacy. Increasing hospital revenue relates to the financial operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with hospital policies involves adherence to institutional guidelines and protocols, and communicating with family members, while important in the context of care delivery, does not encompass the broader concept of advocating for patients' rights and interests.