South Carolina Long Term Health Care Administrator Practice Test

When should the ICP be developed after a resident's admission?

1. Within seven days

2. Within fourteen days

3. Within twenty-one days

4. Within thirty days

The correct answer is: Within twenty-one days

The correct answer is that the Individualized Care Plan (ICP) should be developed within twenty-one days after a resident's admission. This timeframe is established to ensure that the care provided is appropriately tailored to meet each resident's unique needs and circumstances. The process of developing the ICP is a collaborative effort that involves assessing the resident’s health status, preferences, and goals. By allowing a period of twenty-one days, the facility enables enough time to gather comprehensive information through assessments and consultations with healthcare professionals, family members, and the resident themselves. This ensures that the care planning process is thorough and responsive, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and enhanced quality of life for the resident. Shorter timeframes, such as seven or fourteen days, may not provide sufficient opportunity to properly evaluate all aspects of a resident’s needs. Conversely, a longer timeframe like thirty days could delay the implementation of crucial care strategies, leaving residents without necessary support during a critical initial period of their stay. Thus, the twenty-one day requirement strikes an appropriate balance between timely and accountable care planning.