Final answer:
Psychiatric nurses act as advocates by protecting patient rights, ensuring safety, and coordinating healthcare needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Therapeutic Roles of the Nurse in a Relationship:
An example of how a psychiatric nurse acts as an advocate is by ensuring that the patient's rights are respected and protected. This can include advocating for informed consent before any treatment or medication is administered. The nurse may also advocate for the patient's preferences, such as ensuring that their cultural or religious beliefs are respected in their care.
Another example is advocating for the patient's safety. This can involve assessing the environment for any potential hazards and advocating for changes to ensure a safe and secure setting. The nurse may also advocate for the patient's physical and emotional well-being, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment, medication, and therapy.
Furthermore, the psychiatric nurse may serve as an advocate for the patient's overall healthcare needs. This can include coordinating with other healthcare professionals, helping the patient access appropriate resources, and providing education to empower the patient to make informed decisions about their health.