Advocacy in critical care--an evaluation of the implications for nurses and the future

Patient advocacy is now considered an integral part of a nurse's role, however there is continued debate concerning whether a nurse can ever truly represent patients' views and interests. The purpose of this paper is to examine why it is necessary for nurses in critical care areas to consider patient advocacy from professional, ethical and moral perspectives. First definitions of advocacy are reviewed, and this is followed by a critical evaluation of the legitimacy of the idea that nurses are the ideal health care professionals to be patient advocates. In conclusion key issues are identified and recommendations made for preparing future nurse advocates.