If a patient refuses aspirin and nitro after med check, what should you do?

If a patient refuses aspirin and nitro after med check, what should you do?

• A. Respect patient autonomy; document refusal; proceed with other indicated care if possible.
• B. Administer the medications anyway to ensure treatment.
• C. Document refusal but do not proceed with any other care.
• D. Wait for orders from a physician.

Answer: (A)

Respecting patient autonomy when they’re competent to make their own decisions is the guiding principle. If the patient refuses aspirin and nitro after a med check, you acknowledge their choice, verify they understand the potential consequences, and document the refusal per protocol. You can still provide other indicated care that the patient hasn’t refused, as long as it’s safe and appropriate. Do not administer the medications without consent, and you don’t need to wait for physician orders to proceed with other necessary treatments you’re authorized to perform under standing protocols or medical control. If the patient’s condition changes or they become unable to make decisions, reassess and adjust care accordingly. Documentation should include what was refused, the patient’s understanding, any education offered, and the patient’s response, plus current vitals.

Respecting patient autonomy when they’re competent to make their own decisions is the guiding principle. If the patient refuses aspirin and nitro after a med check, you acknowledge their choice, verify they understand the potential consequences, and document the refusal per protocol. You can still provide other indicated care that the patient hasn’t refused, as long as it’s safe and appropriate. Do not administer the medications without consent, and you don’t need to wait for physician orders to proceed with other necessary treatments you’re authorized to perform under standing protocols or medical control. If the patient’s condition changes or they become unable to make decisions, reassess and adjust care accordingly. Documentation should include what was refused, the patient’s understanding, any education offered, and the patient’s response, plus current vitals.