As a nurse, it is essential to actively involve patients in their own care process. Patient participation refers to actively involving patients in making decisions about their care and treatment. Shared decision-making is an important aspect of patient participation, where healthcare providers and patients work together to make decisions based on the patient’s wants, needs, and values. In this blog post, we will discuss why patient participation and shared decision-making are so important in nursing care and how they can contribute to better quality of care and patient satisfaction.
1. Patient empowerment #
By actively involving patients in their own care process and allowing them to participate in decision-making, they can feel empowered and have a sense of control over their health. This can boost their confidence and help them to cope better with their health issues. Patient participation can also lead to better adherence, as patients are more motivated to follow their treatment if they are actively involved in the decision-making process.
2. Improved Patient Satisfaction #
When patients feel that they are heard and involved in their care, they are more satisfied with the care they receive. They feel taken seriously and valued as partners in their own care process. This can lead to improved patient satisfaction and a more positive assessment of the healthcare providers and the healthcare institution.
3. Better health outcomes #
Shared decision-making can also lead to better health outcomes for patients. When patients are actively involved in making decisions about their treatment, they are more likely to adhere to the treatment plan and recommendations of healthcare providers. They are also more likely to share important information about their symptoms and experiences, which can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment.
4. Respect for autonomy #
By promoting patient participation and shared decision-making, healthcare providers show respect for patient autonomy. This means that they consider the patient as an equal partner and respect their rights and values. Respecting patient autonomy is a fundamental principle in healthcare ethics and is essential for providing care that is tailored to the patient’s individual needs and wishes.
5. Better communication #
Shared decision-making also promotes better communication between healthcare providers and patients. When patients are actively involved in the decision-making process, they are encouraged to ask questions, voice their concerns, and share their experiences. This promotes open and honest communication, which is essential for building a trusting relationship between patients and healthcare providers.
6. Culturally relevant care #
Patient participation and shared decision-making can also contribute to culturally relevant care. By involving patients in the decision-making process, healthcare providers can better consider cultural values, beliefs, and practices that may influence patient healthcare decisions. This can lead to more personalized and effective care delivery.
7. Promoting health education #
Shared decision-making also provides an opportunity for health education. When patients are actively involved in the decision-making process, healthcare providers can share important information about the different treatment options, the pros and cons of each option, and what the patient can expect from each treatment. This enables patients to make informed decisions about their care.
Conclusion #
Patient participation and shared decision-making are crucial in nursing care. Promoting patient participation can lead to patient empowerment, improved patient satisfaction, better health outcomes, respect for autonomy, better communication, culturally relevant care, and promotion of health education. As nurses, it is our responsibility to actively involve patients in their care process and support them in making informed decisions about their health.
