Group Home Admin Clients/Residents Practice Exam

What must be done if a child's medication refusal threatens their or others' health or safety?

1. Notify the physician immediately

2. Ignore the refusal unless harmful

3. Report to CCLD via an incident report

4. Consult with the facility's legal counsel

The correct answer is: Report to CCLD via an incident report

When a child's medication refusal poses a risk to their own health or the safety of others, it is crucial to report the incident through an incident report to the appropriate regulatory body, such as the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). This reporting is vital for several reasons. Firstly, documenting the refusal in an incident report ensures that there is a formal record of the event, which can be critical for monitoring and reviewing care practices or future incidents. This documentation helps protect both the residents and the facility by demonstrating compliance with regulations and a proactive approach to health and safety. Secondly, reporting the situation allows for a deeper evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the medication refusal. It can trigger necessary interventions, such as a review of the child's treatment plan or adjustments to therapeutic approaches, thereby prioritizing the child's health and safety. Lastly, regulatory bodies often have established protocols for how to manage these situations effectively, providing guidance on necessary follow-ups or evaluations. This step further safeguards the well-being of the child and the other residents in the facility. While notifying the physician and consulting with legal counsel can also be important, they typically follow after the immediate threat to health and safety has been addressed and documented. Ignoring the refusal could lead to severe consequences, including exacerbating health risks for