BCG Gerontological Care Planning & Ethics — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary goal of person-centered care planning in geriatrics?
- Meeting institutional goals
- Minimizing staff workload
- Focusing solely on physical care
- Respecting individual preferences and values (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Respecting individual preferences and values
Person-centered care focuses on respecting the individual's values, preferences, and desired outcomes in care planning.
Question 2: Which document is used to specify a person's wishes regarding medical treatment if they become incapacitated?
- Health proxy form
- Living will (Correct answer)
- Insurance policy
- Social security application
Correct answer: Living will
An advance directive outlines an individual’s preferences for treatment in case they can no longer communicate their decisions.
Question 3: Why is interprofessional collaboration important in gerontological care planning?
- Reduces patient visits
- Improves reimbursement rates
- Supports comprehensive care (Correct answer)
- Eliminates need for documentation
Correct answer: Supports comprehensive care
Working with a diverse healthcare team improves outcomes by addressing the complex needs of older adults holistically.
Question 4: Which ethical principle ensures that an older adult has the right to make their own healthcare decisions?
- Beneficence
- Autonomy (Correct answer)
- Nonmaleficence
- Justice
Correct answer: Autonomy
Autonomy refers to an individual’s right to make informed decisions about their care, even if others may disagree.
Question 5: What is a key component in discharge planning for geriatric patients?
- Ordering extra tests
- Arranging hospital transportation
- Evaluating home and support system (Correct answer)
- Delaying discharge
Correct answer: Evaluating home and support system
Assessing the patient’s support system and home environment helps ensure continuity of care and reduces readmission risk.
Question 6: What role does informed consent play in ethical gerontological care?
- It replaces medical records
- It allows treatment without explanation
- It supports patient autonomy (Correct answer)
- It applies only in emergencies
Correct answer: It supports patient autonomy
Informed consent ensures patients understand their treatment options and agree voluntarily, protecting their rights and dignity.
What is the primary goal of person-centered care planning in geriatrics?