What do Standards of Care define in nursing practice?

Standards of Care in nursing practice refer to the established guidelines that dictate what is acceptable and expected in nursing care. These standards help to ensure the safety and well-being of patients by outlining the specific actions and treatments that nurses are permitted to perform, as well as those that are restricted.

Recognizing the standards allows nurses to perform their duties within a framework that promotes best practices and minimizes risk. These standards are set by regulatory bodies and professional organizations to ensure a high level of care across the nursing profession. Therefore, the correct understanding of Standards of Care emphasizes their role in defining permissible and prohibited actions, ensuring that nurses act within their scope of practice and adhere to professional guidelines.

The other choices may touch on elements of nursing practice but do not capture the comprehensive purpose of Standards of Care. While acts that should be performed at all times, personal judgment, and alignment with patient preferences are important aspects of nursing, they do not encapsulate the regulatory, boundary-setting framework that Standards of Care provide.