Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a care plan?

1. To decide the resident's daily activities

2. To outline job duties for nursing assistants

3. To document the resident's medical history

4. To direct the care provided to a resident

The correct answer is: To direct the care provided to a resident

The purpose of a care plan is to direct the care provided to a resident. Care plans are individualized documents that specify the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each resident in a healthcare setting. They are developed based on thorough assessments and are crucial for ensuring that nursing assistants and other healthcare providers deliver consistent and appropriate care tailored to the resident's specific conditions. By outlining the strategies, interventions, and expected outcomes, a care plan ensures that all members of the healthcare team are coordinating their efforts and providing care that aligns with the resident's needs. This ultimately leads to improved health outcomes, enhances the quality of life for the resident, and ensures that care is person-centered and effective. In contrast, while daily activities, job duties for nursing assistants, and documenting medical history are important aspects of care in a facility, they do not encapsulate the comprehensive role of a care plan in directing the overall care provided to residents.