If a patient is upset and refusing care upon your arrival, what should you do first?

Evaluating the patient's mental status is a critical first step in this scenario because it helps to determine the underlying reasons for the patient's refusal and assesses their ability to make informed decisions about their care. By assessing their mental state, you can identify any factors such as confusion, anxiety, or any potential impairment that might be affecting their judgment. This understanding is essential for appropriate communication and intervention.

Following this initial assessment, you can better address the patient's concerns and potentially negotiate for care based on their mental capacity. Understanding the patient's state of mind can also inform whether further action, such as involving family members or other decision-makers, is appropriate. Ultimately, ensuring the patient's mental status is stable and they have the capacity to refuse care is fundamental to ethical and effective patient management.