Who must approve the resident care policies once they are written?

The correct choice is the medical director because this individual plays a vital role in ensuring that resident care policies are aligned with medical standards and regulations. The medical director oversees clinical practices within the facility and is responsible for ensuring that the policies reflect the best care practices and comply with state and federal laws. This oversight is essential for maintaining quality care and for the safety of residents, as the medical director ensures that the policies are not only medically sound but consistent with the facility’s overall mission of providing high-quality care.

The role of the medical director encompasses reviewing the policies from a clinical standpoint, addressing any gaps in care delivery, and ensuring that the policies are updated in accordance with current medical guidelines and standards of practice. This is crucial in healthcare settings where patient well-being is the top priority.

Other roles, such as the director or nurse manager, are also essential in the operational and management aspects of care but do not typically have the authority to approve these policies. The administrative director usually focuses on administrative functions rather than clinical policy. Therefore, the medical director's approval is particularly significant in this context.