What should a CMA do if a resident refuses medication?

When a resident refuses medication, the appropriate action for a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is to document the refusal and report it to the supervising nurse. This response is vital for several reasons.

First, documentation serves as an official record of the event, providing a clear account of the resident's decision and the time it occurred. Ignoring the refusal or attempting to change the administration time would not address the resident's autonomy and potential underlying reasons for the refusal, such as side effects or personal beliefs about the medication.

Reporting to the supervising nurse ensures that the health care team is informed of the refusal, allowing for further assessment of the resident's needs. The nurse may follow up with the resident to discuss their concerns, provide education about the medication, or explore alternative solutions. This partnership in care emphasizes the importance of respecting the resident's rights while also ensuring they receive necessary medical attention and support.

Forcing the resident to take medication is never acceptable, as it violates their rights and can lead to mistrust between the resident and caregivers. Thus, the correct course of action is to document the refusal and communicate effectively with the nursing staff to ensure the resident's wishes are respected while maintaining their health and safety.