When a patient refuses their blood pressure medication, stating it was discontinued, what is the NEXT step you should take?

Verifying active orders in the medication record is crucial in this situation because it allows the nurse to establish the correct medical context regarding the patient's current treatment plan. If the patient claims that their blood pressure medication was discontinued, checking the medication record can confirm whether this assertion is accurate or if there is a misunderstanding.

Understanding whether the order for the medication is indeed active or has been previously discontinued is essential for safe nursing practice. This step ensures that you have the necessary information to address the patient’s concerns appropriately and to make informed decisions moving forward.

In cases where patients refuse medications, it is important to clarify any misconceptions to ensure that they are receiving the proper treatment, which might help alleviate their concerns. Following verification, the nurse can then engage the patient in a discussion or escalate matters accordingly based on their findings.