A patient says, 'I am not taking this medication anymore, and I am tired of being here.' What is the best action for the nurse to take?

A patient says, 'I am not taking this medication anymore, and I am tired of being here.' What is the best action for the nurse to take?

• A. Contact the client's family.
• B. Discuss the therapeutic action of the medication.
• C. Remind the client about their agreement for treatment.
• D. Inform the client of their right to leave the facility AMA.

Answer: (D)

Autonomy and the right to refuse treatment are central here. When a patient says they won’t take the medication or stay in the facility, the nurse should first acknowledge the patient’s feelings and inform them of their right to leave the facility against medical advice. This action honors the patient’s self-determination and ensures that they understand their options and the potential consequences. While doing this, the nurse should assess the patient’s decision-making capacity and provide clear information about risks to health if they leave. If capacity is intact, respect their choice and arrange for a safe AMA discharge with appropriate documentation. If there are concerns about capacity or safety, involve the care team and appropriate surrogates per policy before proceeding.

Autonomy and the right to refuse treatment are central here. When a patient says they won’t take the medication or stay in the facility, the nurse should first acknowledge the patient’s feelings and inform them of their right to leave the facility against medical advice. This action honors the patient’s self-determination and ensures that they understand their options and the potential consequences. While doing this, the nurse should assess the patient’s decision-making capacity and provide clear information about risks to health if they leave. If capacity is intact, respect their choice and arrange for a safe AMA discharge with appropriate documentation. If there are concerns about capacity or safety, involve the care team and appropriate surrogates per policy before proceeding.