What should an EMT do if a patient refuses care?

When a patient refuses care, the most appropriate action for an EMT is to assess the patient's decision-making capacity and document the refusal. This process involves ensuring that the patient is fully informed about their condition and the potential consequences of refusing care. It is essential to have a conversation about the risks involved in refusing treatment and to determine if the patient understands this information.

By assessing decision-making capacity, the EMT can confirm that the patient is able to make informed choices about their healthcare. This includes evaluating whether the patient can comprehend the information presented, appreciate the consequences of their decision, and communicate their desires clearly. Proper documentation of the refusal is critical as it provides a record of the patient's decision and the circumstances surrounding it, which can be important for legal protection for both the EMT and the healthcare system.

In contrast, other options would not align with medical ethics and protocols. Simply letting the patient go without further assessment fails to respect their autonomy and may be unsafe if the patient is not in a capacity to adequately understand their situation. Insisting on treatment disregards the patient's right to refuse care, which is fundamental in medical practice. Informing the patient of mandatory transport without assessing their capacity or understanding is also against ethical standards, as patients have the right to refuse treatment