Spiritual care, ethical choices, and patient advocacy

Each of the nurses in these examples demonstrates an understanding of patient advocacy. Patient advocacy may involve the nurse in political action or negotiation for change. Perhaps more frequently, however, it is a quiet, private function of support and intuition as patients (or clients) seek to come to a personal awareness of the meaning of illness. Advocacy exhibits a sensitivity to personal values, hopes, and even unspoken prayer that shape an atmosphere of caring. Patient advocacy enhances all that is life giving.