A care plan review should occur at defined intervals or when what condition changes?

• A. Financial status
• B. Weather
• C. Clinical status
• D. Staff scheduling

Answer: (C)

Care plans are living documents that get updated at defined times and whenever the patient’s clinical status changes. When clinical status changes—new or worsening symptoms, new test results, changes in function or independence, new diagnoses, adverse reactions, or shifts in prognosis—the plan should be reviewed and revised to reflect new goals, updated interventions, and current evaluation criteria. This keeps care aligned with current needs and supports safety and effectiveness. Factors like financial status, weather, or staff scheduling don’t trigger a change in the clinical plan; they influence logistics, not the clinical course.