A client informs the practical nurse (PN) that they will not take their scheduled antihypertensive medication. To respect the client's right to refuse while ensuring safe care, arrange the following nursing actions in the correct chronological order.
- 1Ask the client to share their specific reason for refusing the medication.
- 2Reinforce previous teaching about the purpose of the medication and the health risks of refusing it.
- 3Notify the registered nurse (RN) or prescribing healthcare provider of the client's decision.
- 4Document the medication refusal, the client's rationale, and the provider notification in the medical record.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first assess the client's reason for refusal, then reinforce education about the medication's importance, subsequently report the refusal to the RN or provider, and finally document the incident.
When a client exercises their right to refuse care, the nursing process dictates that data collection comes first. The PN must first understand the root cause of the refusal. Next, the PN ensures informed refusal by reinforcing education about the medication. Then, the PN communicates with the supervising RN or provider for continuity of care. Finally, accurate and complete documentation provides a legal record of the client's choice and the appropriate nursing response.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Client Rights: Refusal of Treatment