Mrs. Higgins has refused to take her ASA ordered by the physician . the first action of the nurse should be:
- A. Notify the physician of the refusal
- B. Chart the refusal on the medication administration record.
- C. Find out why she doesn’t want to take the ASA
- D. Tell her she must take the ASA because the physician has ordered it.
Out of the listed options, the first action of the nurse should be: C. Find out why Mrs. Higgins doesn't want to take the ASA.
Here's why the other options are not the best first steps:
A. Notify the physician of the refusal:
While informing the physician of the patient's refusal is ultimately necessary, it should not be the immediate action without understanding the context of the refusal. Blindly reporting can come across as dismissive of the patient's concerns and delay addressing the root cause.
B. Chart the refusal on the medication administration record:
Documenting the refusal is important, but it shouldn't be the first priority before understanding the patient's perspective and addressing their concerns.
D. Tell her she must take the ASA because the physician has ordered it:
Insisting on medication adherence without understanding the patient's reasons can create fear and distrust, potentially leading to non-compliance and negative health outcomes.
Options:
Therefore, the most ethical and patient-centered approach is to prioritize open communication and understanding. By actively listening to Mrs. Higgins' reasons for refusing the ASA, the nurse can:
- Gain valuable insights:
The patient's concerns might be related to side effects, allergies, interactions with other medications, lack of understanding of the medication's purpose, or religious beliefs. Uncovering the reason helps assess the situation and address it appropriately.
- Provide education and reassurance:
If the concerns are based on misinformation or misunderstanding, the nurse can clarify the rationale behind the medication, its benefits, and address any specific anxieties.
- Offer alternative solutions:
Depending on the reason for refusal, exploring alternative medications or non-pharmacological options might be suitable solutions.
- Maintain trust and build rapport:
Demonstrating genuine concern and respect for the patient's decision-making empowers them and fosters a trusting relationship, crucial for future healthcare decisions.
Ultimately, by prioritizing understanding and communication, the nurse can better advocate for Mrs. Higgins' health and well-being while ensuring medication adherence in a safe and informed manner.
Remember, informed consent and patient autonomy are fundamental principles in healthcare. Addressing patient concerns and exploring options before insisting on medication is essential for ethical and effective care.
