How should you respond to a resident who refuses care?

How should you respond to a resident who refuses care?

• A. Respect their decision, explain the benefits, document the refusal, and notify the nurse
• B. Force care
• C. Do the care anyway and document afterward
• D. Ignore the refusal

Answer: (B)

Respecting a resident’s right to refuse care is about honoring their autonomy while keeping them safe. When a resident refuses, respond calmly and with empathy, acknowledge their choice, and gently explore the reason behind the decision. Provide clear, simple information about what the care would do and what might happen if it isn’t performed, so they can make an informed decision. Assess whether they have the decision-making capacity to refuse; if there’s any doubt about understanding or judgment, stop and notify the nurse so the charge nurse or physician can evaluate. Do not coerce or force care; ethically and legally, care should not be given against a competent resident’s wishes. Document the refusal clearly in the chart, including what was refused, the resident’s stated reason, that you explained the benefits and risks, and the date and time. Notify the nurse promptly so they can assess for any underlying causes (pain, fear, delirium, misunderstanding) and determine next steps. Offer to revisit the discussion later and continue to provide support and reassurance, always prioritizing safety and dignity.

Respecting a resident’s right to refuse care is about honoring their autonomy while keeping them safe. When a resident refuses, respond calmly and with empathy, acknowledge their choice, and gently explore the reason behind the decision. Provide clear, simple information about what the care would do and what might happen if it isn’t performed, so they can make an informed decision. Assess whether they have the decision-making capacity to refuse; if there’s any doubt about understanding or judgment, stop and notify the nurse so the charge nurse or physician can evaluate. Do not coerce or force care; ethically and legally, care should not be given against a competent resident’s wishes. Document the refusal clearly in the chart, including what was refused, the resident’s stated reason, that you explained the benefits and risks, and the date and time. Notify the nurse promptly so they can assess for any underlying causes (pain, fear, delirium, misunderstanding) and determine next steps. Offer to revisit the discussion later and continue to provide support and reassurance, always prioritizing safety and dignity.