Ethical Practice

Question

A client has received teaching about an oral medication and now refuses it. Which actions should the practical nurse take? Select all that apply.

1. ARespect the client’s decision not to take it.✓ Correct

   The client may refuse the medication.

2. BRecord the refusal in the client’s chart.✓ Correct

   The chart should reflect the actual event.

3. CNotify the prescribing provider.✓ Correct

   The prescriber needs to know the dose was declined.

4. DDocument that the dose was swallowed.✗ Incorrect

   A refused dose was not administered.

5. EPut the medicine into food without telling the client.✗ Incorrect

   Concealment defeats the client’s decision.

Answer

A. Respect the client’s decision not to take it. · B. Record the refusal in the client’s chart. · C. Notify the prescribing provider.

Rationale

The nurse respects the client’s decision and makes the missed dose visible to the care team. Documenting the refusal and notifying the prescriber support appropriate follow-up.