What is accountability in nursing?

Accountability in nursing fundamentally refers to the responsibility that nurses have for the quality of care they provide to their patients. It involves recognizing that nurses are answerable for their actions, clinical decisions, and the outcomes of the care they deliver. This responsibility encompasses adhering to established standards of practice, ensuring patient safety, and advocating for the needs and well-being of patients. Being accountable means that nurses must not only practice competently but also be able to justify their actions and decisions based on evidence-based practice.

While understanding the patient, providing education, and maintaining positive self-talk are important aspects of nursing practice, they do not fully encapsulate the concept of accountability. Accountability is a broader principle that underpins the entire profession, emphasizing the ethical and professional obligation nurses have towards their patients and their practice. It fosters trust and integrity in the nurse-patient relationship and ensures a commitment to continuous improvement in care quality.