What should a nurse do right after a client discharges against medical advice?

Filing an incident report is the appropriate action for a nurse to take after a client discharges against medical advice. This action is essential for several reasons. It documents the situation in detail, capturing the client's state of mind, the information provided to them regarding the risks of leaving, and their decision-making process. This report serves as a legal safeguard for healthcare providers and the institution by creating a formal record of the event, which might be critical for any future disputes or assessments regarding the client's care.

Moreover, incident reports help to identify patterns that may indicate systemic issues within the healthcare facility, contributing to quality improvement efforts. Taking this step ensures that the facility is aware of potential risks and allows for modifications in practice if necessary.

While notifying family members or helping the client find transportation might be important in certain contexts, they do not address the legal and safety implications of a discharge against medical advice. Encouraging the client to stay could inadvertently contribute to coercive practices, which can undermine the client's autonomy. Therefore, the priority lies in ensuring that all aspects surrounding the discharge are properly documented and that the client understands the ramifications of their decision.