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Balancing Independence and Safety: Decision-Making for TBI Clients in the ABI Waiver Program
Scenario: Sophia, an ABI Waiver program-approved behavioral therapist, is working with a new client, Christi, who is recovering from a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Christi displays impulsivity, poor judgment, and memory issues, yet Sophia believes she is ready for more independence. Without seeking approval from Care Management or discussing her decision with agency providers, Sophia informs Christi that she can venture out alone each day, without ABI Waiver support staff. She tells Christi she doesn't need to inform anyone of her whereabouts. Meanwhile, Sophia instructs the support staff to wait at Christi's home, hoping she returns safely and willingly.
Questions:
Given Christi's impulsive behavior and poor judgment, should Sophia have sought approval from Care Management before allowing her to venture out alone?
A. Yes
B. No
C. It depends on the situation
D. Not applicable
What steps could Sophia have taken to ensure proper communication and collaboration with Care Management and agency providers in planning for Christi's increased independence?
A. Informing Care Management and discussing with agency providers
B. Ignoring Care Management and not consulting with agency providers
C. Requesting a formal meeting with all parties involved
D. A and C
What potential risks does Sophia's decision pose to Christi's safety and well-being, especially given her impulsivity, poor judgment, and memory issues?
A. Getting lost or disoriented
B. Engaging in risky behavior
C. Compromising her own safety
D. All of the above
How should the ABI Waiver support staff respond to Sophia's instructions, considering the potential danger Christi may be in?
A. Follow Sophia's instructions without question
B. Express their concerns to Sophia
C. Contact Care Management to seek guidance
D. B and C
How should Care Management respond to Sophia's instructions, considering the potential danger Christi may be in?
A. Support Sophia's decision
B. Investigate the situation and intervene if necessary
C. Revoke Sophia's approval as an ABI Waiver program therapist
D. Ignore the situation
What measures can be put in place to ensure Christi's safety while still promoting her independence, taking into account her TBI-related challenges?
A. Gradual increase in independence with supervision
B. GPS tracking device
C. Check-in calls or texts at designated times
D. All of the above
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ABI Resources is a reputable organization that provides exceptional support to individuals and families in collaboration with various government agencies and community service providers, including the Connecticut Department of Social Services DSS, COU Community Options, the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services DMHAS, Connecticut Community Care CCC CCCI Southwestern Connecticut Area on Aging SWCAA, Western Connecticut Area on Aging WCAAA, Allied Community Resources ACR, Access Health, and United Services. ABI Resources collaborates care with renowned institutions such as HFSC, Gaylord, UCONN, Yale, and Hartford. As a community care and supported living provider, ABI Resources is dedicated to offering high-quality and personalized care to enhance the lives of those it serves. Medicaid MFP Money Follows the person program / ABI Waiver Program / PCA waiver.
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