What is required when a competent patient refuses care?

When a competent patient refuses care, it is essential that the refusal is documented appropriately, often with a witness. This requirement ensures that there is a record of the patient's informed decision, acknowledging their autonomy and right to make choices about their own healthcare. Documenting the refusal helps protect both the patient and the healthcare provider legally, as it provides evidence that the patient was informed of the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment and made a conscious choice to decline.

This documentation typically includes details of the conversation regarding the risks associated with refusing care, the patient's understanding of those risks, and the fact that they are competent to make such a decision. Having a witness can further corroborate that the refusal was made voluntarily and without coercion, adding an extra layer of protection in case questions about the patient's decision arise later.

In contrast, ignoring the refusal or attempting to convince the patient against their wishes would disregard the patient's rights and could lead to ethical and legal issues. Overriding a patient's decision in emergencies is also complex and typically involves specific criteria that must be met based on implied consent when a patient is incapacitated.