In most live-in care placements taking medication is a routine occurrence and refusal is often uncommon. However, sometimes we may be with a client who absolutely refuses to take a tablet, and this can lead to all sorts of issues such as confrontations and tears – neither of which are beneficial nor helpful.

How can we handle this refusal?

The very first thing to do is to find out why your client is refusing to take their medication.

Refusal is always a way of letting us know that something is not right, and it is our job to discover that reason. 

The reason for refusal can be anything from nausea, drowsiness, anxiety over reactions or simply that the tablet does not taste nice.

With any refusal we need to remember that our clients have the right to refuse medication and we need to understand why that medication is important to take. We also need to be aware of the consequences of not taking that particular medication.

Find a pattern

If medication is refused at the same time, with the same glass of water and in the same place, perhaps try to change the routine so that instead of water your client drinks a favourite cordial. Could you put off taking the medication for another half hour until your client is in a different place?

If it is the routine that offends your client, then try to find a way to change things around a little. Sometimes this will help to set a new routine where taking medication is not an issue.

When nothing works

It is important to speak to the doctor if medication is refused. They may be able to prescribe the medication in a different form. 

They may also be able to prescribe smaller doses which are easier to take or give you permission to disguise a tablet in a food such as yogurt. 

Do not take matters into your own hands without first speaking to the doctor.

Final thoughts

Any time any medication is refused you need to document it on your own MAR sheet. You should use the correct code to show why it was refused, partially taken or any other reason. 

You must, as your agency will have told you, inform them and take their advice. Most importantly, you should speak to the doctor and follow his advice. 

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