When a surrogate is involved in care decisions for a resident with dementia, what is expected?

When a surrogate is involved in care decisions for a resident with dementia, what is expected?

• A. Involve surrogates as needed, and ensure decisions reflect resident preferences.
• B. Surrogates should always decide with no input from resident.
• C. Never involve surrogates.
• D. Ignore resident preferences.

Answer: (C)

When a surrogate is involved in care decisions for a resident with dementia, decisions should be guided by the resident’s known preferences and values, with the surrogate representing what the resident would have chosen if able. If the resident lacks capacity, decisions are made by substituted judgment based on prior wishes; if those wishes are not known, choices should reflect the resident’s best interests and aim to preserve comfort and dignity. In practice, involve the surrogate in care planning discussions, share information in plain language, and document decisions clearly. This approach respects autonomy and person-centered care by aligning care with the resident’s values rather than disregarding their preferences.

When a surrogate is involved in care decisions for a resident with dementia, decisions should be guided by the resident’s known preferences and values, with the surrogate representing what the resident would have chosen if able. If the resident lacks capacity, decisions are made by substituted judgment based on prior wishes; if those wishes are not known, choices should reflect the resident’s best interests and aim to preserve comfort and dignity. In practice, involve the surrogate in care planning discussions, share information in plain language, and document decisions clearly. This approach respects autonomy and person-centered care by aligning care with the resident’s values rather than disregarding their preferences.