Which term refers to the professional obligation of a nurse to assume responsibility for actions?

The term that describes the professional obligation of a nurse to assume responsibility for their actions is accountability. Accountability in nursing means that the nurse is answerable for their decisions and the outcomes of their care. It involves taking ownership of one's actions, both in the context of clinical decision-making and in adhering to established standards of practice. This means that the nurse must not only deliver care but also ensure that their actions align with ethical guidelines, policies, and legal aspects of nursing practice.

In the context of nursing, accountability also encompasses being transparent and honest about mistakes or errors that may occur during patient care. It encourages continuous self-evaluation and improvement in practice, which ultimately benefits patient outcomes. Accountability ensures that nurses uphold the trust placed in them by patients and their families, as well as the healthcare system as a whole.

The other terms, while related to nursing practice, do not specifically define the obligation to take responsibility for actions. Autonomy refers to the ability to make independent decisions about patient care; advocacy involves supporting and promoting the interests of patients; and competence addresses the skills and knowledge necessary to perform nursing tasks effectively. Each of these aspects is important in nursing, but accountability specifically captures the essence of responsibility for one's professional actions.