Care Plans & Their Role in Person-Centered Care
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January 22, 2025
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By Mary Day
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Many residents who enter nursing or assisted living homes have never heard of a care plan. The care plan is a formal document that outlines a resident’s medical and personal care needs, treatments, as well as their preferences for things like food, activities, and religious practices. This document serves as a guide for the staff to provide appropriate care.
Nursing homes are required to review the care plan every quarter with the resident(s) and staff. Any changes to the resident’s condition or preferences should be noted and communicated to the resident’s care team. Moreover, residents have the right to request a care conference at any time to discuss the quality of care or changes in preferences. At this meeting, residents can invite anyone they wish, including family or friends, the ombudsman, and any appropriate staff members such as the activities director, director of nursing, dietician, and any other staff member that touches the resident’s life.
