What are the best strategies for resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment?

1 Understand the reasons

The first step to resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment is to understand why they are doing so. There may be various factors that influence their decision, such as fear, anxiety, mistrust, cultural beliefs, religious values, personal preferences, or lack of information. Try to listen actively and respectfully to their concerns and ask open-ended questions to clarify their reasons. Avoid making assumptions or judgments and acknowledge their right to autonomy and informed consent.

2 Provide clear and accurate information

The second step to resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment is to provide them with clear and accurate information about their condition, the benefits and risks of the treatment, the alternatives and consequences of not receiving the treatment, and the evidence that supports your recommendations. Use simple and understandable language and avoid jargon or technical terms. Use visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, or pamphlets, if possible. Check for their understanding and answer any questions they may have. Do not pressure or coerce them into accepting the treatment, but emphasize the importance of their health and well-being.

3 Explore options and negotiate

The third step to resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment is to explore options and negotiate a solution that meets their needs and preferences as well as your professional obligations and standards. Try to find a common ground or a compromise that respects their values and wishes while ensuring their safety and quality of care. For example, you may suggest a different mode, dose, frequency, or duration of the treatment, a referral to another provider, a second opinion, a trial period, or a follow-up plan. If they still refuse the treatment, document their decision and inform them of the possible outcomes and your responsibility to report it to the appropriate authorities.

4 Seek support and guidance

The fourth step to resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment is to seek support and guidance from your colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or legal advisors. You may need to consult with other members of the health care team, such as physicians, pharmacists, social workers, or ethicists, to discuss the case and obtain their input and advice. You may also need to refer to your organizational policies, procedures, and protocols, as well as your professional codes of conduct, standards of practice, and ethical principles, to ensure that you are acting in accordance with the law and your scope of practice.

6 Reflect and learn

The sixth and final step to resolving conflicts with patients who refuse treatment is to reflect and learn from your experience. You may encounter similar situations in the future, so it is important to evaluate your actions and outcomes and identify what worked well and what could be improved. You may also seek feedback from your patients, colleagues, or supervisors to gain insight and perspective on your performance and skills. You may also engage in continuing education, training, or research to update your knowledge and competence in conflict resolution and patient care. By reflecting and learning, you can improve your practice and confidence as a nurse and prepare yourself for future challenges.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?