Patient advocacy: breaking down barriers and challenging decisions

Why do nurses sometimes fail to speak up for a patient whose best interest is at risk or whose wellbeing is compromised? This article discusses the role of nurses as patient advocates and the reasons why some find it difficult to fulfil their responsibilities in this area. Via a selection of narratives from real-life situations, the article raises questions and prompts readers to reflect on their ability to challenge other people's decisions, behaviours or beliefs. This is the first in a series of occasional articles using narratives to investigate issues in nursing.