If a resident refuses food or water, what should you do?

• A. Document the refusal and report to the nurse
• B. Force-feed the resident
• C. Continue offering but ignore the refusal
• D. Wait for the next meal

Answer: (A)

When a resident refuses food or drink, the priority is to respect their choice while ensuring safety. The best course is to document the refusal and report it to the nurse so a licensed clinician can assess possible reasons—pain, swallowing problems, dehydration, or other medical needs—and adjust the care plan accordingly. Forcing food or fluids is unsafe and violates the resident’s autonomy, and ignoring the refusal or waiting for the next meal can lead to dehydration or malnutrition. By documenting what was offered, how much was refused, the time, and any resident statements or symptoms, you provide essential information for the nurse to act on. If allowed by policy, you can offer small amounts again later, but you should not pressure the resident.