If a patient refuses a medication, what should the nurse do?

• A. Document the refusal immediately and arrange follow-up; inform the primary nurse and health care provider.
• B. Ignore the refusal.
• C. Force the medication.
• D. Cancel the medication order.

Answer: (A)

Respecting a patient’s right to refuse a medication while ensuring safety is the key idea. When a patient declines, the nurse should document the refusal promptly in the medical record, note the reason if given, and arrange timely follow-up to reassess and address concerns. Informing the primary nurse and health care provider ensures the team is aware and can discuss alternatives, provide additional education, or adjust the plan as needed. This approach supports informed decision-making and continuity of care, without pressuring the patient or bypassing their autonomy. Ignoring the refusal, forcing the medication, or canceling the order without proper discussion and documentation are not appropriate, as they undermine patient rights and safety. If capacity is in question, follow the facility’s policies on assessing decision-making ability and involving appropriate support or surrogates.