What is a nurse's obligation when a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, the nurse's primary obligation is to respect the patient's decision and document it. This respect for patient autonomy is an essential principle in healthcare, recognizing the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their own care. When patients are competent to make their own choices, they should have the authority to accept or refuse treatment without coercion.

Documenting the refusal is critical as it provides a record of the patient’s decision, which can be important for legal and ethical reasons. This documentation can also protect the nurse and the healthcare facility from future disputes regarding the patient's care or treatment decisions.

While the nurse may engage in dialogue to ensure that the patient is fully informed about their treatment options and the implications of refusing treatment, the ultimate decision lies with the patient. Other actions, like contacting the patient's family or administering treatment against the patient’s wishes, can compromise patient autonomy and may not align with ethical standards in nursing practice.