A charge nurse is supervising a newly licensed nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing auditory hallucinations and is refusing medication. The newly licensed nurse suggests placing the medication in the client’s food to the charge nurse. Which of the following actions should the charge nurse take?
A.
Suggest the family persuade the client to take the medication.
B.
Recommend that the medication be delivered intramuscularly.
C.
Remind the newly licensed nurse that the client has a right to refuse medication.
D.
Suggest the newly licensed nurse contact the pharmacy to inquire about compatible foods.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Remind the newly licensed nurse that the client has a right to refuse medication.
Explanation:
Clients have the fundamental right to make decisions about their healthcare, including the right to refuse treatment. This principle is rooted in patient autonomy and informed consent. A client, regardless of their mental health status, has the right to refuse medication unless a legal process, such as a court order, has mandated treatment.
In this scenario, the client is experiencing auditory hallucinations and is refusing medication. Although these hallucinations may impair the client’s judgment, this does not automatically revoke their right to refuse treatment. Unless the client is deemed legally incompetent or poses an imminent threat to themselves or others, nurses must respect their decision. Sneaking medication into a client’s food, as suggested by the newly licensed nurse, would be considered unethical and a violation of the client’s rights. This action could result in legal consequences for both the nurse and the facility.
Additionally, offering medications covertly without the client’s consent undermines trust between the healthcare team and the client. Trust is essential for effective therapeutic relationships, especially in mental health care. It is important to engage clients in their care by providing education about their condition and treatment options, which may help them reconsider their decision. However, if the client still refuses, the nurse must honor that decision.
Options A and B are not appropriate, as family persuasion or delivering medication intramuscularly without the client’s consent would still violate the client’s autonomy. Option D would also be unethical because it implies giving the medication secretly.
By reminding the newly licensed nurse of the client’s rights, the charge nurse promotes ethical practice, respects client autonomy, and upholds professional standards.