Table 2 Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) of nurses’ work autonomy level in making patient care decisions (N = 212)

1. Take measures to avoid patients falling

1

5

(3.66–4.02)

3.84

1.33

2. Prevent the development of skin ulcers

1

5

(3.52–3.86)

3.69

1.26

3. Educate patients on healthcare promotion activities

1

5

(3.45–3.80)

3.62

1.31

4. Teach patients self-care tasks

1

5

(3.37–3.74)

3.56

1.34

5. Teach about patient medication

1

5

(3.39–3.73)

3.56

1.28

6. Clarify physician’s orders by asking questions

1

5

(3.36–3.73)

3.55

1.38

7. Consult with medical professionals and other experts

1

5

(3.32–3.69)

3.51

1.37

8. Act as an advocate for the patient

1

5

(3.32–3.70)

3.51

1.39

9. Determine the best time to administer care

1

5

(3.20–3.57)

3.39

1.38

10. Collaborate with patients to plan their care

1

5

(3.06–3.43)

3.25

1.39

11. Make decisions about pain management

1

5

(3.08–3.45)

3.26

1.37

12. Handle complaints from physicians

1

5

(2.90–3.30)

3.10

1.48

13. Refuse to carry out orders from physicians, if necessary

1

5

(2.97–3.36)

3.17

1.41

14. Inform patients about the risks associated with surgery

1

5

(2.95–3.34)

3.15

1.44

15. Create educational materials for patients

1

5

(2.88–3.25)

3.06

1.36

16. Refer patients to other healthcare professionals

1

5

(2.63–3.01)

2.82

1.41

17. Address complaints from individual patients

1

5

(2.93–3.32)

3.13

1.44

18. Follow orders for “as needed” medications

1

5

(2.93–3.34)

3.13

1.50

19. Determine the appropriate day for discharge

1

5

(2.41–2.81)

2.61

1.46

20. Discuss alternatives with physicians

1

5

(2.84–3.25)

3.04

1.51

21. Order diagnostic tests as needed

1

5

(2.07–2.47)

2.27

1.48