What should be done if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, it is essential to notify the physician and document the refusal. This approach ensures that the healthcare team is fully aware of the patient's decision and can address any potential implications for their health or treatment plan. Proper documentation is critical as it provides a record of the patient's wishes, which is important for legal and ethical reasons.

By informing the physician, the team can discuss alternative options, reassess the patient's understanding of their condition, and ensure that the refusal does not lead to any adverse outcomes. This step also fosters communication within the care team, allowing for a coordinated approach to managing the patient's care.

In contrast, simply documenting the refusal without notifying the physician might leave the team unaware of a significant decision the patient has made, which could affect ongoing treatment and care coordination. Trying to persuade the patient may not respect their autonomy, and ignoring the patient's decision entirely dismisses their rights and could lead to serious ethical concerns.