A 91-year-old patient with end stage renal failure is refusing to take his medications because of the side effects and lack of effectiveness. How should the nurse respond?

Explanation

•A patient has the legal right to refuse any treatment or medication. The nurse should respect the patient's decision and encourage the patient to explore his feelings and emotions.

•"Don't be difficult" is incorrect because the nurse is not respecting the patient's decision, and this statement may cause the patient to become defensive toward the nurse.

•The other options are incorrect because the patient can refuse any medications.

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