The patient arrives in the emergency department complaining of severe abdominal pain and vomiting,and is severely dehydrated.The physician orders IV fluids for the dehydration and an IV antiemetic for the patient.However,the patient states that she is fearful of needles and adamantly refuses to have an IV started.The nurse explains the importance of and rationale for the ordered treatment,but the patient continues to refuse.What should the nurse do?

A) Summon the nurse technician to hold the arm down while the IV is inserted.
B) Use a numbing medication before inserting the IV.
C) Document the patient's refusal and notify the physician.
D) Tell the patient that she will be discharged without care unless she complies.

Question

Olatubosun Afolabi · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  The Patient Self-Determination Act,effective December 1,1991,requires all Medicare- and Medicaid-recipient hospitals to provide patients with information about their right to accept or reject medical treatment.The patient has the right to refuse treatment.Refusal should be documented and the health care provider consulted about alternate treatment.

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