If a patient refuses to sign the COA, what should be done?

The correct action to take when a patient refuses to sign the Consent for Admission (COA) is to document the refusal and continue care. When a patient declines to sign the COA, it's essential to respect their wishes while also ensuring that they receive the necessary medical attention. Documenting the refusal provides a record that the patient was informed about the implications of their decision and that they chose not to proceed with signing.

Services should not be denied as this could compromise the patient's care and well-being. It is vital for healthcare providers to ensure that patients continue receiving necessary treatment even if they do not provide consent in the form of a signature. Signing the document on behalf of the patient, whether by the registrar or another witness, is inappropriate and violates ethical standards. Forging a signature is illegal and unethical, leading to serious legal consequences and breaches of trust. Thus, the responsible course of action is to document the refusal and proceed with care, ensuring that the patient's health is prioritized.