What is an important quality of effective patient advocacy?

An important quality of effective patient advocacy is to ensure patients are aware of their rights and options. This role is essential because advocates serve to empower patients, providing them with the necessary information to make informed choices about their care. By recognizing and understanding their rights, patients can more effectively participate in discussions regarding their treatment options, thereby enhancing their ability to take an active role in their healthcare decisions. This empowerment is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring that the patient's voice is heard in their own care.

While maintaining confidentiality is important, it is more about protecting patient information rather than directly advocating for their active involvement. Prioritizing hospital policies over patient needs and limiting patient involvement in care decisions directly contradict the core principles of advocacy, which center around supporting the patient’s interests and autonomy.