What action should a chiropractor take if a patient refuses treatment?

When a patient refuses treatment, the appropriate action for a chiropractor is to document the refusal in the patient's record. This documentation serves several important purposes. First, it creates a clear record that the patient was informed about the treatment options and chose not to proceed. This is essential for legal protection, as it demonstrates the practitioner’s adherence to professional standards of care and informed consent. Additionally, documenting the refusal helps ensure continuity of care; if the patient returns for future visits, the chiropractor has a reference point regarding the patient’s preferences and past decisions.

Recording the refusal can also aid in future discussions with the patient regarding their treatment options, as documentation ensures that both the patient and the chiropractor have a clear understanding of previous interactions. It's important for the chiropractor to maintain a detailed and accurate patient record for their own protection and to facilitate effective communication and treatment planning moving forward.