What does the term "empowerment" refer to in nursing practice?

In nursing practice, the term "empowerment" refers to supporting patients to take control of their health and making informed decisions about their care. This concept emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy and the active participation of individuals in their own healthcare journey. Empowerment in nursing encourages nurses to provide patients with information, resources, and the confidence they need to understand their health conditions, treatment options, and encourage them to express their preferences and opinions.

This approach helps patients to become more engaged and proactive in their care, fostering a sense of ownership over their health and well-being. By promoting empowerment, nurses can help improve patient outcomes, enhance satisfaction with care, and encourage a collaborative nurse-patient relationship that respects the patient's wishes and values.