What should an Emergency Department nurse do if a patient refuses to sign a medical care refusal form and leaves the hospital?

When a patient refuses to sign a medical care refusal form and decides to leave the hospital, it is crucial that the nurse documents the refusal in the medical record. This step is important for several reasons.

First, documentation serves as a legal record of the patient's decision, indicating that they were informed about the potential risks and consequences of refusing treatment. This can be critical in the event of future legal issues related to the patient's care, as it shows that the healthcare provider upheld their duty to inform the patient about their medical situation and the implications of their choices.

Second, maintaining accurate documentation ensures that other members of the healthcare team are aware of the patient's decision and can take any necessary steps to follow up appropriately. It contributes to continuity of care, as other providers may need to know about the patient's refusal of treatment and any prior discussions.

In this situation, other options would not adequately address the patient's right to refuse care or the hospital's obligation to document that refusal. Ignoring the refusal would disregard the patient's autonomy and could lead to serious legal implications for the healthcare provider. Contacting the patient's primary care physician may be appropriate in some circumstances, but documentation of the refusal is essential regardless of that action, ensuring that there is a clear record of the patient's decision