Question

An ER nurse is caring for a Southeast Asian female patient who has been diagnosed with appendicitis but refused surgery. Which of the following responses by the nurse would be considered most appropriate?

1. wait for the patient's husband to arrive to assist with decision making
2. do nothing because the patient has autonomy to refuse treatment
3. advocate for the patient and her decision of not getting the surgery
4. prepare the patient's discharge paperwork along with pain medication

Answer 1

The most appropriate response from an ER nurse would be to advocate for the Southeast Asian female patient's decision to refuse surgery for appendicitis, respecting her autonomy and ensuring she is fully informed. Further engagement is needed to understand her reasons for refusal and to discuss potential consequences and alternatives.

Step-by-step explanation:

An ER nurse encountering a Southeast Asian female patient who has refused surgery for appendicitis needs to navigate the situation with cultural sensitivity and awareness of the patient's autonomy. The most appropriate action would be to advocate for the patient's decision, as this respects her autonomy and right to make informed choices about her own healthcare. This does not mean that the nurse should do nothing or prepare discharge paperwork immediately, as the situation may require further discussion and exploration of the patient's reasons for refusal, potential alternatives, and ensuring the patient is fully informed about the risks and benefits of all options. Effective communication and patient advocacy are key elements of a nurse's role in such scenarios.

The nurse should not wait for the patient's husband to arrive before taking action, as this could delay necessary care. It also assumes the patient cannot make decisions on her own, which can be a culturally insensitive assumption. The patient's autonomy should be respected unless there is clear evidence that she is not capable of making her own medical decisions.