What should a physician do if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, the physician must respect the patient's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own healthcare. The correct course of action involves documenting the patient's refusal in their medical records and clearly explaining the risks associated with not receiving the recommended treatment. This ensures that the physician has a detailed account of the patient's decision and the information provided to them, which is crucial for legal and ethical reasons. Proper documentation can also protect the physician in cases where the patient's condition may worsen as a result of refusing treatment, as it shows that the physician acted responsibly by informing the patient.

While persuading the patient to accept treatment may seem well-intentioned, it is important to recognize that coercing a patient undermines their right to make informed choices about their health. Providing treatment without consent is contrary to the principles of medical ethics and can lead to legal repercussions. Seeking a second opinion is not necessary in every case of refusal, and it does not address the immediate need to document the patient’s choice and associated risks. Thus, the correct response is to document the refusal and explain the risks to uphold the patient’s rights and the physician's legal responsibilities.