What should a nurse do if a patient refuses a prescribed medication?

Respecting a patient's right to refuse medication is fundamental to providing ethical and patient-centered care. Autonomy is a core principle in healthcare, meaning that patients have the right to make informed decisions about their own treatment. When a patient refuses a prescribed medication, it is essential for the nurse to acknowledge and respect that choice, even if it might not align with the nurse’s or the physician’s recommendations.

After honoring the patient’s decision, the nurse should engage in a dialogue to understand the reasons behind the refusal. This approach helps in building trust and allows the nurse to clarify any misconceptions the patient may have about the medication. The nurse can then provide information regarding the implications of refusing the medication and discuss alternative options if available. This not only respects the patient's autonomy but also encourages informed decision-making, which is vital for effective patient care.

The other options, while emphasizing different aspects of patient care, do not align with the principle of respecting patient autonomy and could potentially undermine the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient.