Q.1. Option 1: Sarah needs not just reassurance that her baby will be fine but be assured of the confidence that she would be able to manage the care of the baby when she gets back home with the baby. My duty then would be to pay attention to her by listening to her attentively, make sure she can see me and make eye contact with her. Stable and not distracted and reassure her. Answer her questions truthfully. Basically what Sarah needs is confidence from the care team and confidence in her own abilities.
Q.2. Option 2: I would seek Sarah’s permission to come in. I’ll say to Sarah, “I’m sorry you’re going through this tough time…you have a great team of people behind you.” I’ll ask her if there’s anything I can do. I’ll offer her a cup of tea/food/drinks. I’ll listen to her and/hug her to reassure her and offer to be a point person if she needs anything.
Q. 3. Option 2: Although a patient has a right to discharge themselves but the goal is to encourage Sarah to stay and complete the recommended treatment. I’ll advice Sarah of the consequences of leaving before an evaluation is complete. I’ll try hard to encourage her to stay. Meanwhile I’ll document Sarah’s refusal to stay in the patient’s chart what extent I went to making her stay. If she insists on leaving, I’ll make sure I document and if possible get witnesses and make sure I document that the risks of leaving is documented in her chart. discuss follow up with the doctor.
