4A-2 Creating a Treatment Plan: The Guardian’s Role in Treatment Planning

So far, you’ve read a lot about what goes into creating a treatment plan. You may wonder, “What’s my role as a guardian in all of this?” 

• Review the treatment plan’s goals and objectives and make sure everything is on track.
• Identify which staff members will provide treatment.
• Make note of any challenges you see with the treatment and alert the facility staff.
• Learn everything about the ward’s medications including potential side effects.
• Recognize that discharge planning starts at admission.
• Be aware that sometimes treatment plans change as the treatment progresses, stalls or unexpected developments crop up.
• Meet with the ward regularly while they’re in the facility. 

The guardian should be included in the treatment planning process and is legally able to view all clinical records. Except when immediate harm to the patient may occur, the facility must obtain informed and express consent from the guardian for the ward before beginning treatment.