Against Medical Advice: Addressing Treatment Refusal

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When a patient or family refuses treatment-maybe even lifesaving treatment-because it is contrary to their social, religious, or cultural beliefs, it can plunge healthcare providers, families, and patients into a difficult, emotionally charged conversation. Complex and diverse ethical dilemmas such as this can profoundly impact the health, welfare, and mental and emotional well-being of everyone involved. What’s more, today’s nurses and healthcare professionals will almost inevitably face this situation or one like it.

Against Medical Advice details many of the medical, legal, social, cultural, and religious factors associated with treatment refusals. Authors Luanne Linnard-Palmer and Ellen Christiansen prepare healthcare professionals to compassionately assess and understand people’s beliefs, cultures, and philosophical perspectives. Their proven strategies and step-by-step examples guide providers to consider the patient’s and family’s point of view, share concerns with other healthcare team members, and negotiate the best possible outcome for all involved.