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This study examined factors impacting the psychological well-being of women living with human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS and the impact of depression on clinical outcomes. Nearly two-thirds of participants in this cross-sectional study reported significant depressive symptoms. Compared with women living with human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS without depressive symptoms, those with depression reported significantly poorer health outcomes. Health care providers should regularly screen these women for and adequately treat depression, and must collaborate with mental health providers and pastoral care counselors to address the mental health needs of women living with human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS to optimize their human immunodeficiency virus-related outcomes., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Each of the nurses in these examples demonstrates an understanding of patient advocacy. Patient advocacy may involve the nurse in political action or negotiation for change. Perhaps more frequently, however, it is a quiet, private function of support and intuition as patients (or clients) seek to come to a personal awareness of the meaning of illness. Advocacy exhibits a sensitivity to personal values, hopes, and even unspoken prayer that shape an atmosphere of caring. Patient advocacy enhances all that is life giving.