If a patient refuses hospital transport, what must be done?

• A. All refusal criteria must be met according to protocol.
• B. The patient can refuse freely.
• C. Refusal criteria are optional.
• D. The provider decides unilaterally.

Answer: (A)

When a patient refuses hospital transport, their decision is only valid if all defined refusal criteria are satisfied. This means confirming the patient has decision-making capacity (can understand information, appreciate consequences, and communicate a choice), is not intoxicated or mentally impaired, and is legally eligible (not a minor, unless a guardian is present). The provider must give clear information about the risks of not going to the hospital, discuss alternatives or follow-up options, and document the discussion, the patient’s understanding, and the refusal. If any criterion isn’t met, transport or further assessment is required. This is why the best approach is to ensure every refusal criterion is met according to protocol.