A correctional nurse was preparing to give an inmate his psychotropic

A correctional nurse was preparing to give an inmate his psychotropic drug when the prisoner hit the nurse’s arm, sending the medication flying, and yelled, “No more. I’m not taking that poison anymore!” The prisoner is obviously mentally ill.

A correctional nurse was preparing to give an inmate his psychotropic drug when the prisoner hit the nurse’s arm, sending the medication flying, and yelled, “No more. I’m not taking that poison anymore!” The prisoner is obviously mentally ill. Which of the following actions should be taken by the nurse?
a.
Inject the medication rather than debate taking the oral pill with the inmate
b.
Recognize the prisoner’s right to refuse treatment
c.
Throw the medication away, obtain another pill, and try to persuade the prisoner to take the drug
d.
Force the medication down the prisoner’s throat with the assistance of two prison guards

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: B
Nurses practicing in correctional settings must respect the right to refuse care even if the result is an adverse outcome.