A client admitted voluntarily asks not to take meds. Which response should the nurse give?

• A. You have the right to refuse to take the medication.
• B. I can make a list of the medications that you don't want to take.
• C. You agreed to take medication when you decided to be admitted.
• D. If the provider prescribes medication, I will have to administer it.

Answer: (A)

Respecting a patient’s autonomy is the key idea here: a person who volunteers for admission has the right to refuse medications. The nurse should acknowledge the patient’s decision, provide clear information about what the medication does, its benefits and risks, and document the refusal. It’s also appropriate to offer to discuss concerns with the prescriber and to revisit the decision later, while continuing to monitor safety and support. The other responses imply the patient can’t control their treatment, or try to prompt compliance without addressing the patient’s informed choice, which isn’t appropriate in voluntary admission.