What should you do if a patient refuses to do NCT?

Documenting "patient refused" next to NCT on the patient record card (PRC) is crucial because it creates an official record of the patient's decision. This documentation is important for several reasons. It ensures continuity of care; if future providers need to review the record, they will see that the NCT was not performed at the patient's request. This can also protect the healthcare provider legally, as there is a clear indication that the patient chose not to undergo the test.

Accurate documentation helps maintain a detailed history of the patient's treatment and responses during visits, which can be important for their ongoing care. While discussing benefits might encourage some patients to reconsider, ultimately, the patient's autonomy must be respected, and recording their refusal is the appropriate response. Additionally, contacting the doctor might not be necessary unless there are specific circumstances that warrant it, and moving on without recording the refusal could lead to a lack of clarity in the patient's medical record.