Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) CBT Practice Test

Choosing to respect a patient's autonomy and providing information about the consequences of their decision is essential in nursing practice. Autonomy reflects the patient's right to make informed choices about their care, and it's crucial for nurses to honor these choices, even if they differ from what the healthcare team believes is in the patient's best interest.

When a patient refuses treatment, it's important for the nurse to engage in a respectful dialogue that explains the implications of this refusal. This includes providing the patient with clear and comprehensive information about their condition, the treatment options available, and the potential risks and benefits of refusing treatment. Such an approach empowers the patient to make informed decisions and reinforces the collaborative nature of the nurse-patient relationship.

While documenting the refusal is necessary, it should be done alongside a thorough conversation about the patient's decision and any relevant information shared. Involving the physician to override the patient's decision may violate ethical standards regarding patient rights, and pressing the patient can damage trust and rapport. Thus, respecting autonomy not only fosters informed decision-making but also maintains the dignity and agency of the patient in the healthcare process.