What action should an RMA take if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, the appropriate action for a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) is to respect the patient's decision and document the refusal appropriately. This respects the patient's autonomy, a foundational principle in healthcare, which acknowledges that patients have the right to make informed choices about their own medical care, including the right to refuse treatment.

Documenting the refusal is critical as it provides a clear record of the patient's decision, which can be important for legal and clinical reasons. This documentation should include the date and time of the refusal, the specifics of the treatment being refused, and any information provided to the patient about the risks and benefits of the treatment. This thorough approach ensures that the healthcare team has a complete understanding of the patient's wishes and any potential implications for their care.

Trying to convince the patient to accept treatment may undermine their autonomy and could lead to ethical and legal challenges. Ignoring the decision or proceeding against medical advice not only disrespects the patient's choice but also poses serious ethical and legal risks. While notifying the physician is important in certain contexts, the immediate priority should be to respect the patient's decision and ensure that it is properly documented.