How should you respond when a patient changes their health goals after initially stating them?

How should you respond when a patient changes their health goals after initially stating them?

• A. Hide from team.
• B. Respect autonomy, reassess reasons, document change, update plan and consent.
• C. Dismiss change.
• D. Stop treatment.

Answer: (B)

When a patient changes their health goals, respond by honoring their autonomy and aligning care with their current priorities. Begin with an open conversation to understand why the goals have shifted, what they now value, and what they understand about the options and consequences. If the patient is capable of making their own decisions, document the new goals and the reasons for the change, then update the treatment plan and obtain or reaffirm consent for any adjustments. This approach preserves trust, ensures the plan reflects the patient’s current wishes, and keeps the care team coordinated. Hiding from the team, dismissing the change, or stopping treatment without assessment would undermine patient-centered care and safety.

When a patient changes their health goals, respond by honoring their autonomy and aligning care with their current priorities. Begin with an open conversation to understand why the goals have shifted, what they now value, and what they understand about the options and consequences. If the patient is capable of making their own decisions, document the new goals and the reasons for the change, then update the treatment plan and obtain or reaffirm consent for any adjustments. This approach preserves trust, ensures the plan reflects the patient’s current wishes, and keeps the care team coordinated. Hiding from the team, dismissing the change, or stopping treatment without assessment would undermine patient-centered care and safety.