What is the nurse's responsibility when a patient refuses a beneficial treatment?

• A. Override patient decision if beneficial treatment is available.
• B. Explain that patient cannot understand and must accept.
• C. Respect the patient’s decision after ensuring understanding; document the decision, provide information, and explore alternatives while avoiding coercion.
• D. Encourage another family member to decide.

Answer: (C)

When a patient refuses a treatment they believe would benefit them, the nurse prioritizes the patient's right to autonomy. If the patient has decision-making capacity, their refusal must be respected, but only after confirming they understand the risks, benefits, and available alternatives. The nurse should provide clear, unbiased information, answer questions, and check comprehension, then document the decision and the information given. At the same time, the nurse should explore acceptable alternatives that align with the patient’s values, and avoid any pressure or coercion to change the decision. This approach upholds informed consent and self-determination. If a patient lacks capacity or has an advance directive or surrogate decision-maker, those factors guide next steps, but the fundamental idea remains respect for the patient’s informed choice.