What should a nurse do when a patient declines to take their medication?

When a patient declines to take their medication, the correct action is to respect their decision and document the refusal. This approach upholds the principles of patient autonomy and informed consent, which are foundational to ethical nursing practice. Patients have the right to make decisions about their own health care, including the choice to refuse medication.

Documentation of the refusal is essential for several reasons: it provides a record of the patient's wishes, ensures continuity of care, and informs other healthcare providers of the patient's decision. This can help in planning ongoing treatment and prevents any misunderstandings about the patient's medication regimen.

Respecting the patient's autonomy fosters a trusting nurse-patient relationship and encourages open communication, allowing for discussions about concerns or beliefs that might influence their decision. It also opens the door for the nurse to explore the reasons for the refusal and to offer education about the importance of the medication, potentially leading to a more informed choice in the future.