Which action best reflects patient advocacy by the critical care nurse?

• A. Maintaining attendance at the bedside during a physician visit
• B. Assisting and supporting the patient and family as they reveal their needs
• C. Alerting the physician to concerns about client placement after hospitalization
• D. Encouraging and supporting a patient's spouse in preparing for a family meeting

Answer: (B)

The action reflects patient advocacy by actively helping the patient and family express needs, preferences, and goals to the care team. By assisting and supporting them as they reveal what matters to them, the nurse ensures their voice is heard, their values guide decisions, and care plans align with the patient’s wishes. This inclusive, patient-centered approach fosters informed decisions, clarifies options, and protects the patient’s autonomy within the critical care setting.

Other actions are important supports or safety measures, but they don’t directly center on eliciting and communicating the patient’s own needs and goals to the clinicians as clearly.