What is considered a primary responsibility of nurses regarding patient safety?

A primary responsibility of nurses regarding patient safety is to identify and mitigate risks that threaten patient safety. This involves a proactive approach in recognizing potential hazards in the healthcare environment and taking appropriate actions to prevent harm to patients. Nurses play a crucial role in monitoring patient conditions, administering medications accurately, and ensuring that all healthcare practices are carried out safely.

Effective risk identification and mitigation strategies may include thorough patient assessments, open communication with patients and other healthcare team members, and advocating for the needs and concerns of patients. By focusing on safety, nurses contribute significantly to creating a safe environment conducive to healing and recovery. This responsibility encompasses everything from observing changes in a patient's condition to implementing policies that enhance safety protocols.

The other options suggest either minimizing patient interaction, limiting responsibilities to adherence of treatment plans, or prioritizing hospital protocols over patient concerns, which do not align with the essential nursing role of ensuring comprehensive patient care and safety. Each of these alternatives fails to recognize the holistic nature of nursing practice, which includes maintaining the patient's well-being as a top priority.