What should a CMA do if a patient refuses to take medication?

When a patient refuses to take medication, the appropriate action is to document and report the refusal. This is crucial for maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring that other healthcare professionals are informed about the patient’s decision. Documentation serves several purposes: it provides a clear record of the patient's wishes, helps in understanding their concerns or potential reasons for refusal, and tracks their overall compliance with the treatment plan. Reporting to a supervising nurse or physician is essential because it allows the healthcare team to reassess the patient's treatment and engage in a conversation about their preferences, educational needs, or any misconceptions they might have about the medication.

Forcing medication on a patient goes against ethical guidelines and could lead to physical and psychological harm, while ignoring the refusal disregards the patient's autonomy and rights. Stopping all medications immediately without consulting the care team may not address the underlying issues causing the refusal and could compromise the patient's health. Thus, documenting and reporting the refusal is the best professional practice in this scenario.