Clinical judgment is complex and influenced by many factors related to the patient and caregiving situation. This requires a comprehensive approach, one in which there is a willingness to consider all factors involved in patient care and to partner with the individual, family, group, community, and/or belief systems.

Which of the following is essential for effective clinical judgment?

Choice A reason:

Integrity involves adhering to moral and ethical principles, and while it is important in healthcare, it does not specifically refer to the act of protecting and supporting another's rights.

Choice B reason:

Compassion is the feeling of empathy and concern for others, which can motivate advocacy, but in itself, it is not the act of advocating for a patient's rights and dignity.

Choice C reason:

Advocacy is the correct term that describes the protection and support of another's rights. It involves actions taken to speak on behalf of the patient, represent their interests, and uphold their dignity and worth within the healthcare system.

Choice D reason:

Humility is the quality of having a modest view of one's importance. While a humble approach can be beneficial in patient care, it is not synonymous with advocating for a patient's rights and dignity.

Choice A reason: Societal ethics refer to the values and standards that a society upholds. While important, they are broader and not specific to an individual organization's mission and policies.

Choice B reason: Organizational ethics are specific to a company or institution and include the mission, values, policies, and procedures that guide the behavior of its members. These are established to ensure that the organization operates in a manner consistent with its goals and legal and social responsibilities.

Choice C reason: Personal ethics are the principles that an individual holds about what is right and wrong. These are personal beliefs and may not necessarily align with an organization's policies and procedures.

Choice D reason: Professional ethics are the standards and practices that members of a profession are expected to follow. These can overlap with organizational ethics but are specific to professional conduct within a field.