The practice of nursing that includes accepting responsibility for actions taken to provide client care and for the consequences of actions not performed is called what?

• A. Accountability
• B. Liability
• C. Autonomy
• D. Competence

Answer: (A)

Accountability means taking responsibility for what you do in patient care and for the outcomes of those actions, including the consequences of things you do not do. In nursing, this means you are answerable to patients, families, employers, and the profession for delivering care that meets standards and for any results that arise from your actions or omissions. It encompasses documenting properly, following established policies, and owning the outcomes of care, whether positive or negative. The idea that you’re accountable for omissions as well as actions is key—if a standard of care requires an intervention and you don’t perform it, you’re accountable for that missed care. This distinguishes accountability from liability (legal responsibility), autonomy (independence in decision-making), and competence (having the necessary knowledge and skills).