What should an HHA do if a client refuses medication?

When a client refuses medication, it is essential for a Home Health Aide to respect the client's autonomy and decision-making rights. By choosing to recognize the client's wishes, the HHA upholds the ethical principle of patient-centered care, which emphasizes respect for individual preferences and choices.

In addition, informing the supervising nurse or healthcare provider is crucial because they need to know about the refusal to evaluate the situation appropriately and determine the next steps. This collaboration ensures that the client's health and safety are prioritized while also addressing the potential need for a reassessment of the client’s care plan or a discussion about the importance of the medication.

Other choices may not align with best practices in patient care. Insisting that a client take medication can compromise trust and may lead to feelings of coercion. Simply documenting the refusal without notifying a healthcare professional could result in missed opportunities to address underlying concerns the client may have regarding the medication. While encouraging the client to take the medication may seem supportive, it does not fully respect the client’s right to refuse treatment.