If a patient refuses care due to grief, what should the CNA do?

In situations where a patient refuses care due to grief, the appropriate response involves documenting the patient’s refusal and notifying the nurse. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and acknowledges their emotional state while ensuring that the healthcare team is informed of the situation. It is essential for the CNA to document the refusal properly, as this can have implications for the patient's care plan and may provide the healthcare team with important context regarding the patient’s emotional condition.

Furthermore, notifying the nurse allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's needs and ensures that appropriate interventions can be provided. The nurse may have strategies to help the patient cope with their grief and may be able to offer support or alternative options for care that are more acceptable to the patient at that moment. This approach underscores the importance of communication and teamwork in providing effective patient care.