Yes, I agree with the ANA’s decision to emphasize the word “patient” instead of the word “client” in referring to nursing care recipients. The word “patient” has a longer history and tradition in healthcare, and it connotes a relationship of trust and care between the healthcare provider and the recipient of care. The word “client,” on the other hand, is more often used in a business context, and it can connote a more transactional relationship.

The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses states that nurses have a primary commitment to the patient. This commitment is based on the principles of respect, compassion, and autonomy. Nurses have a responsibility to provide patients with the highest quality of care possible, and to advocate for their rights and well-being.

The use of the word “patient” in the ANA Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of this relationship of trust and care. It reminds nurses that they are not simply providing a service to a client, but that they are caring for a human being who is vulnerable and in need of their help.

The word “client” is sometimes used in healthcare settings to refer to people who are receiving care from a private practitioner or clinic. However, even in these settings, I believe that the word “patient” is more appropriate. This is because the relationship between the healthcare provider and the recipient of care is still one of trust and care, even if the patient is paying for the service.

I believe that the use of the word “patient” in the ANA Code of Ethics is important for the following reasons:

• It emphasizes the relationship of trust and care between the nurse and the patient.
• It reminds nurses that they are caring for a human being who is vulnerable and in need of their help.
• It is more consistent with the traditional language of healthcare.
• It is more respectful of the patient’s autonomy and dignity.

I encourage all healthcare providers to use the word “patient” when referring to the people they care for. It is a small change, but it makes a big difference in emphasizing the importance of the relationship between the healthcare provider and the recipient of care.