A patient brought into the emergency department tells the nurse that she does not need anything because she cannot pay for any health services. Which of the following should the nurse do to help this patient?

Question

1. Find out what services are covered by Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and explain that the patient's care will be covered.
2. Provide paperwork for the patient to sign out of the hospital against medical advice.
3. Ask if there is anyone who can pick the patient up from the hospital.
4. Ask the health care provider for medication because the patient is confused.

Answer 1

Find out what services are covered by Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and explain that the patient's care will be covered.

Rationale: Hospitals cannot turn patients away who require emergency care services and cannot refuse to care for patients. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) ensures public access to emergency services regardless of patients' ability to pay. A patient unable to pay will be considered charity care in the hospital's budget; however, this assistance does not cover all costs incurred. The nurse should find out what the EMTALA law will cover and explain that to the patient. It is premature for the nurse to provide paperwork for the patient to sign out of the organization or to call for someone to pick her up. There is no evidence to suggest that the patient is confused.