What is included in a baseline care plan?

A baseline care plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the initial approach to a patient's/individual’s care. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that all necessary steps and treatments are detailed for effective management.

Initial goals set the direction of the care being provided, as they establish what the team aims to achieve in the care process. MD (Medical Doctor) orders are critical as they provide the prescribed interventions and treatments necessary for the patient’s well-being. Dietary orders are also essential components, ensuring the individual's nutritional needs are addressed appropriately based on their health condition and requirements.

Including these elements in a baseline care plan ensures that all team members are informed and aligned with the treatment strategy, promoting cohesive and comprehensive care. The focus on initial goals, medical directives, and nutrition creates a solid foundation upon which further assessments and changes can be made as needed, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

In contrast, other options include elements that, while important in the broader context of care, do not specifically belong to the foundational setup of a baseline care plan. Staff training schedules, annual reviews, and emergency instructions, although relevant, are components that develop later or address ongoing management, rather than the initial care structure.