A patient who is admitted involuntarily with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, manic phase, refuses a prescribed dose of lithium.The nurse assembles a show of force and intimidates the patient into taking the medication.What is a likely an outcome of this action for the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Forcing a medication on an involuntary patient without their consent is a violation of their rights and could lead to a civil suit against the nurse for assault. It is important for healthcare providers to respect the autonomy and rights of their patients, even if they are involuntarily admitted. Intimidation and the use of force can also damage the nurse-patient relationship and hinder future treatment efforts. A lessening of mania may or may not occur, and grounds to sue the hospital for false imprisonment would not be applicable in this situation.

A Patient Who Is Admitted Involuntarily with a Diagnosis of Bipolar