According to QSEN, which statement best describes patient-centered care?

• A. Understanding that the client is the source of control when providing care
• B. The nurse makes all decisions for the patient
• C. Care is standardized regardless of patient preferences
• D. Physicians have final say in the care plan

Answer: (A)

Patient-centered care means treating the patient as the active partner and decision-maker in their own health care, with plans tailored to what they value, prefer, and need. QSEN emphasizes sharing information, respecting patient autonomy, and inviting patients to participate in decisions about their treatment. The statement that the client is the source of control best captures this approach because it centers the patient’s preferences and choices in every aspect of care, from planning to execution.

The other ideas conflict with this approach: having the nurse make all decisions dismisses the patient’s right to participate; applying care in a standardized way without considering individual preferences ignores the person behind the illness; and allowing physicians to have the final say similarly sidelines the patient’s input.