Which professional value is reflected when a nurse supports equal access to healthcare?

The professional value reflected when a nurse supports equal access to healthcare is justice. Justice in nursing entails promoting fairness and equity in the distribution of healthcare resources and treatment. When a nurse advocates for equal access, they are actively acknowledging that all individuals should have the opportunity to receive care regardless of their socioeconomic status, background, or other factors. This aligns with the principle of justice, which seeks to ensure that everyone has the same rights to healthcare services and is treated fairly when it comes to receiving medical attention.

Compassion relates to understanding and empathizing with patients' suffering, which is vital in nursing but does not specifically address issues of equity in access. Respect pertains to valuing each patient as an individual, recognizing their dignity and rights, while accountability involves being responsible for one's actions in practice. Although these values are essential in nursing, they do not directly capture the essence of advocating for equitable access to healthcare services, which is primarily a matter of justice.