What should a QMA do if a resident refuses medication?

When a resident refuses medication, the appropriate action is to document the refusal and inform the supervising nurse. This step is crucial because it ensures that the refusal is formally recorded, which is important for both legal and clinical reasons. Proper documentation helps maintain a clear medical record, which can inform future care decisions and ensures continuity of the resident's care plan. Furthermore, notifying the supervising nurse enables them to assess the situation, provide guidance on how to address the resident's concerns, and decide on any further necessary actions regarding medication management.

Asking the resident to reconsider may seem like a way to handle the situation, but it does not fulfill the responsibility of reporting the refusal and can put undue pressure on the resident. Administering the medication against the resident’s wishes disregards their rights and autonomy. Ignoring the refusal can lead to serious implications for the resident's health and well-being, especially if the medication is essential. Therefore, documenting the refusal and notifying the nurse is the most effective and ethical response.