If a patient refuses medications and says he wants to pray, what should the nurse do?

• A. Administer meds anyway
• B. Explain the need for the medication then document.
• C. Pray with the patient
• D. Find an alternative therapy

Answer: (B)

When a patient refuses a prescribed medication, the priority is to ensure an informed, voluntary decision. The nurse should explain why the medication is prescribed, what benefits it offers, and what risks or consequences may arise from taking or not taking it, then answer questions the patient may have. After confirming understanding, the nurse documents the refusal in the chart with the time, date, and a note of what was discussed, so the record reflects the patient’s choice and the rationale. If needed, offer to revisit the information later or discuss alternatives, but the initial action is informing and documenting. Providing spiritual support or praying with the patient can be appropriate as a supportive gesture, but it does not substitute for obtaining informed consent or for documenting the refusal. Administering medications against the patient’s wishes would violate autonomy, and seeking an alternative therapy should follow the patient’s informed decision rather than being the first step.