AAC Ethical & Legal Issues

Question 1

What is informed consent in dementia care?

Accepted Answer

Agreement after full information

Answer

Informed consent in dementia care means that a person, or their legally appointed decision-maker, agrees to a medical treatment or care plan only after receiving and understanding all relevant information. This includes the nature of the treatment, its potential benefits and risks, and alternative options. It upholds the individual's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own care, even as their cognitive abilities decline.

Question 2

Why is confidentiality important in dementia care?

Accepted Answer

To protect privacy

Answer

Confidentiality is a fundamental ethical and legal principle in dementia care, ensuring that a person's personal and medical information is kept private. Protecting privacy builds trust between the person with dementia, their family, and caregivers, and prevents unauthorized disclosure of sensitive details. Upholding confidentiality respects the individual's dignity and rights, even when they may not be able to advocate for themselves.

Question 3

What is the role of advance directives in dementia care?

Accepted Answer

Express care preferences early

Answer

Advance directives are legal documents, such as living wills or durable powers of attorney for healthcare, that allow individuals to express their healthcare preferences in advance. For people with dementia, these directives are crucial because they ensure that their wishes regarding medical treatment, life support, and other care decisions are honored even after they lose the capacity to communicate them. This empowers individuals to maintain control over their future care.

Question 4

Which legal issue is critical when managing medications?

Accepted Answer

Following prescription orders

Answer

Following prescription orders precisely is a critical legal and ethical issue when managing medications for individuals with dementia. This ensures that the person receives the correct medication, dosage, and administration schedule as prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional. Adhering to prescriptions prevents medication errors, potential harm, and legal liabilities, safeguarding the patient's health and safety.

Question 5

How should ethical dilemmas in dementia care be addressed?

Accepted Answer

Consulting ethical guidelines

Answer

Ethical dilemmas in dementia care, such as balancing autonomy with safety or deciding on aggressive treatments, should be addressed by consulting established ethical guidelines and engaging in thoughtful discussion. These guidelines provide a framework for making difficult decisions that prioritize the person's best interests, dignity, and rights. Collaboration with family, healthcare professionals, and ethics committees can help navigate complex situations responsibly.

(AAC) Alzheimer's Association Certification Practice Test

(AAC) Alzheimer's Association Certification Practice Test

AAC Ethical & Legal Issues