Which of the following is considered a risk in patient advocacy?

Failure to monitor patient outcomes is indeed a significant risk in patient advocacy. Advocates play a crucial role in supporting patients throughout their healthcare journey, which includes being attentive to the effectiveness of the treatments or interventions being received. If there is a lack of monitoring of patient outcomes, it can lead to several negative consequences, including the continuation of ineffective treatments, the potential for adverse effects, and overall dissatisfaction with care.

When an advocate does not keep track of how a patient is responding to treatment, they may miss vital signs that indicate a need for intervention or a change in care strategy. This oversight can compromise patient safety and well-being, as it can prevent timely adjustments to treatment plans that are crucial for achieving positive health outcomes. Furthermore, failing to monitor outcomes could disconnect the advocacy process from the patient's real needs and experiences, which is foundational for effective patient-centered care.

In contrast, maintaining patient confidentiality, providing accurate information about care options, and ensuring informed consent are all essential functions of a patient advocate. These actions help to create a trusting relationship between the advocate and the patient, empower the patient in their decision-making process, and uphold ethical standards in healthcare practices. However, they do not carry the same immediate risk of negatively impacting patient health as the failure to