What could be the legal consequence of taking a patient's vitals when they refuse care?

Taking a patient's vitals after they have explicitly refused care can lead to battery, as it involves the non-consensual touching of the patient, which is considered an infringement on their personal autonomy and rights. In healthcare, obtaining consent is not just a legal requirement but also an ethical obligation. If a patient refuses care, including vital sign checks, proceeding without consent can be viewed as an assault, since it disregards the individual's choice regarding their own body.

Consent is a fundamental principle in medical ethics; respecting a patient's wishes is paramount. When a healthcare provider or a related professional acts contrary to that consent, they expose themselves to legal repercussions, which may include claims of assault. This is why understanding the importance of patient autonomy is crucial in the practice of healthcare and allied services.