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A nurse is dealing with an extremely uncooperative patient who will not take his medicine. What would be an appropriate response?

a. Telling the patient, "You have to take your meds. It's what the doctor ordered, and it is in your best interest."
b. Crushing the meds in the patient's food so that he gets them anyway, because he really needs to take them to get better.
c. Informing the patient of the possible ramifications of not taking his meds, but accepting that he does not have to take them if that is his decision.
d. Telling another nurse not to force the patient to take his meds because it is his decision not to take them. And, if he does not care about getting better why should his nurses.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The most ethical and professional response when dealing with an uncooperative patient who refuses to take medication is to inform them of the consequences but respect their decision. Crushing meds into food or disregarding the patient's autonomy is not acceptable.

Step-by-step explanation:

When dealing with an uncooperative patient who will not take his medicine, the most appropriate response from a healthcare professional would be option (c): informing the patient of the possible ramifications of not taking his meds, but accepting that he does not have to take them if that is his decision. This approach respects the autonomy and the right of the patient to make decisions regarding their health while also providing them with essential information about their treatment. Crushing the medication into the patient's food without consent (option b) is unethical and could be illegal as it violates the patient's right to informed consent. Informing another nurse not to enforce medication (option d) is unprofessional and does not help in providing the best possible care for the patient. Telling the patient that they must take their medication because the doctor ordered it (option a) disregards the importance of patient consent and collaboration in the treatment process.

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