What is the purpose of a care plan?

The purpose of a care plan is to outline the specific needs and interventions for a patient’s care. This document serves as a personalized roadmap for healthcare providers, illustrating individualized goals, the patient's medical history, current health status, and the interventions necessary to meet the patient's needs effectively. By detailing what care is required and how it should be delivered, the care plan ensures that all team members, including nursing assistants, are on the same page regarding the patient's treatment approach. It facilitates coordinated and comprehensive care, allowing for adjustments based on the patient's progress and changing condition.

Options that focus on tracking financial aspects, serving as a legal document, or replacing verbal communication do not align with the primary purpose of a care plan, which is fundamentally about the direct care and support of the patient.