No matter how kind an emergency worker is when he or she treats patients who are injured or sick, many will still refuse to go to the hospital. This presents a dilemma for the EMS worker. If you truly believe that the patient needs hospital care but is refusing to go, what can you do?
Most states have protocol in dealing with these difficult patient. While it may be somewhat different from state to state, the basic rules are the same. EMS workers must transport patients who are impaired. This could be by alcohol, drugs, head trauma, or a similar circumstance.
If none of the above circumstances are present, the EMS should follow several steps to protect themselves. In a litigious society, many people will still file a lawsuit even if it is the patient’s choice not to seek further treatment. Following these simple steps will protect the EMS worker from scrutinity from the patient and perhaps his or her director later.
- Explain to the patient the danger of not going the hospital. If money is an issue, assure the patient that the hospital will help them with the bills. Do everything you can to get the patient to go to the hospital.
- Document all of your treatment to the patient.
- Record the conversation with the patient, if possible. If you have a tape recorder, use it.
- Ask for help. Ask another worker to try to explain to the patient the seriousness their condition. Let your supervisor know what is happening. This covers you and gives you another ally in convincing the patient to go to the hospital.
- Before you release them, make sure all of their vital signs are stable enough to justify their release.
- Don’t become combative with the patient. It is easy to become frustrated with someone who doesn’t want to do what you feel is in their best interest. Treat the patient professionally. Use acalm voice.
- Try to call a doctor and have the doctor talk to the patient.
- Have the refusal documented with the call center and tell the call center the reason.
Sometimes, no matter what you do you will not be able to get the patient to the hospital. Don’t count it as a failure. If you did all you could do, let it go. You cannot take responsibility for patients that do not take responsibility for themselves.
Article provided by Kim Berly
