Patient advocate: This role has been described as the most important of the nursing roles. This role entails protecting the rights of the patient. For instance, when a patient is sick, they are unable to act as they normally would. Thus, it is the responsibility of the nurse to determine what a patient wants. - See more at: http://www.nursetogether.com/6-roles-nurses-play-truly-make-them-heart-healthcare#sthash.kju7xOPd.dpuf