If a resident refuses their medication, what should the aide do?

In situations where a resident refuses medication, the appropriate action is to document the refusal and report it to the nurse. This approach respects the resident's autonomy and their right to make choices about their own healthcare. Documentation provides a record of the incident, which is important for ensuring continuity of care and for any necessary follow-up. By informing the nurse, the aide ensures that the healthcare team is aware of the refusal and can address it in a professional manner, potentially assessing the reason behind the refusal and deciding on the next steps in the resident's care plan.

Forcing medication or ignoring the refusal disregards the resident's rights and could potentially lead to harm or further complications. Offering a different medication without professional guidance could also lead to inappropriate care decisions and may not address the underlying issues of why the resident refused the original medication. Therefore, the correct response prioritizes communication, documentation, and respect for the resident's decision.