Which approach best supports autonomy for clients in home health care?

• A. Encouraging self-care and independence
• B. Clinician makes all decisions
• C. Collaborative planning with patient and family
• D. Relying on caregiver to implement plan

Answer: (C)

Autonomy in home health care is best supported when care is planned collaboratively with the patient and their family. This approach respects the patient’s right to shape their own care by incorporating their goals, values, and preferences into the plan. When everyone contributes—patient, family, and care team—the resulting plan is more aligned with what the patient wants and can realistically follow, which boosts engagement and adherence.

Encouraging self-care and independence is important, but autonomy grows strongest when the patient actively participates in decisions about what and how care will be provided, not just in performing tasks. If the clinician makes all decisions, the patient loses influence over their own care. Similarly, if a caregiver implements the plan without the patient’s input, the patient’s preferences and goals aren’t being honored. Collaborative planning brings these elements together, supporting true autonomy.