The prudent physician tries to explore the reasons for refusing therapy. If the patient continues to decline treatment, document this discussion and refusal. Each case must be examined individually. In discussions concerning the refusal of appropriate treatment, inform the patient of possible adverse outcomes resulting from inadequate treatment. Provide information regarding available treatment even to patients with terminal diseases who have advanced directives.
Patients frequently reconsider treatment when informed of the possibility of disability or death.
Additionally, patients often refuse to consent simply because they do not understand the proposed therapy completely. Encourage patients who refuse care to return should they change their minds. If a parent's refusal of treatment seriously jeopardizes a child's well-being, physicians may consider taking temporary protective custody under child abuse laws, which vary from state to state. In general, parents cannot refuse life-saving therapy on religious or other grounds. Courts previously have decided in favor of the physician treating the minor.