Final answer:
A nurse should document the patient's refusal of IM lorazepam and inform the healthcare provider, respecting the patient's autonomy and following ethical and legal standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient on a mental health unit refuses an intramuscular (IM) medication like lorazepam, the nurse must respect the patient's right to refuse treatment. The appropriate nursing action in this situation is documenting the refusal and informing the healthcare provider about it. This is essential for legal and ethical reasons and ensures that the care team is aware of the patient's decision and can consider alternative plans. Calling security or administering the medication by force is not appropriate and could be considered unethical and possibly illegal. Offering the medication in oral form could be considered if the medication is available and prescribed in that form and if the patient agrees to take it orally; however, this should also be discussed with the provider. The priority is to maintain patient safety, respect patient autonomy, and keep the healthcare team informed.