When a swimmer refuses help, monitoring them closely and remaining vigilant is the most appropriate action for a lifeguard to take. This approach balances respect for the swimmer's autonomy while ensuring their safety.
By maintaining a watchful eye, the lifeguard can quickly assess any changes in the swimmer's condition or behavior. It's crucial to be prepared to intervene if the situation worsens or if the swimmer begins to show signs of distress. This vigilant observation allows the lifeguard to act promptly without overstepping boundaries when the swimmer has expressed a desire to handle their situation independently.
While insisting on helping the swimmer could escalate the situation and infringe upon their rights, leaving them alone could lead to a lack of support in case they encounter difficulties. Notifying a supervisor can be necessary in certain situations, but immediate action requires an attentive presence that focuses on ensuring the swimmer's safety right away. Thus, closely monitoring the swimmer provides the best combination of support and safety measures.