Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

What should a cardiac-vascular nurse advise a patient who wishes to refuse an experimental cardiac drug?

1. The medication dose has been scheduled for administration.

2. The primary investigator will speak with the patient about his or her decision.

3. The patient has a right to refuse the medication and to withdraw from the study.

4. Participation in the study is critical to improving the quality of patient outcomes.

The correct answer is: The patient has a right to refuse the medication and to withdraw from the study.

The patient has the fundamental right to refuse any medical treatment, including participation in clinical trials for experimental drugs. This principle is rooted in the ethical guidelines surrounding informed consent, which emphasize that individuals should have the autonomy to make choices about their own healthcare. The right to withdraw from a study at any point, without facing penalties or losing access to standard care, is a critical aspect of clinical research ethics. By acknowledging the patient's right to refuse the medication and to withdraw from the study, the cardiac-vascular nurse ensures that the patient feels empowered and respected in their decision-making process regarding their treatment options. This response also reinforces the ethical responsibility of healthcare providers to prioritize patient autonomy while providing necessary information about the potential implications of their choice.