Final answer:
When a person declines medical treatment, the phlebotomist must respect the patient's rights, inform them of the consequences, and document the refusal.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a person declines medical treatment, the first thing a phlebotomist should do is respect the patient's decision and ensure an understanding of the patient's rights. These rights include refusing any medical procedure or treatment. However, the phlebotomist should also inform the patient of the implications of not undergoing the procedure and document the refusal as per the facility's policies. Communication is crucial, and the phlebotomist may also need to alert the patient's healthcare provider of the decision to decline treatment, so appropriate follow-up can be arranged if necessary.