What should EMS personnel do if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, it is essential for EMS personnel to not only respect the patient's autonomy but also to ensure they understand the implications of their decision. Encouraging the patient to seek care is crucial, as it helps to convey the importance of medical attention and ensures that the patient is fully informed of any potential risks associated with refusing treatment. This approach fosters communication and may help the patient reconsider their decision.

Documenting the refusal is also critical as it provides a record of the patient's decision-making process and protects the EMS personnel from liability. While this aspect is not directly stated in the choice, part of encouraging the patient to seek care would typically involve documenting the interaction. This documentation serves as a legal safeguard in case the situation escalates or if the patient later faces negative consequences from their choice.

In contrast to this option, simply documenting the refusal and leaving the patient may overlook the important dialogue about the risks of refusal and does not support the patient's understanding of their situation. Transporting a patient against their will raises significant ethical and legal concerns, and obtaining consent from a relative may not always be possible or appropriate, especially without clear evidence of the patient's incapacity to make their own decisions.