What is the correct procedure if a client refuses a prescribed medication?

Competent adults have the right to refuse any medical treatment, including medications. The nurse must respect this right while ensuring informed decision-making. Steps: (1) Acknowledge the refusal calmly; (2) Explore the reason — concerns about side effects, religious beliefs, distrust, misunderstanding, feeling well; (3) Provide education about the medication's purpose, expected benefits, and risks of refusal; (4) If the client still refuses, document the refusal including the client's stated reason, the education provided, and notification of the prescriber; (5) Notify the prescriber so they can speak with the client if appropriate or adjust the treatment plan. Documentation should include the exact medication, time, client's stated reason for refusal, and actions taken. The nurse may not force medications, hide them in food without informed consent (which would be assault), or falsify documentation. Exceptions exist for involuntary psychiatric holds and emergencies, but require legal authority.