How can you manage family interference with a client's care plan?

1 Assess the situation

Before you react to any family interference, try to understand the underlying reasons and motivations behind it. Some family members may interfere out of genuine concern, misunderstanding, or lack of information. Others may have ulterior motives, such as financial gain, control, or emotional manipulation. Ask yourself these questions: How often and how severe is the interference? How does it impact your client's goals and needs? How does it affect your rapport and communication with your client and their family? What are the potential risks and benefits of addressing or ignoring the interference?

2 Communicate clearly and respectfully

One of the most important steps to manage family interference is to communicate clearly and respectfully with your client and their family. Explain your role and responsibilities as a case manager, and the purpose and benefits of the care plan. Listen to their concerns and questions, and provide accurate and relevant information. Validate their feelings and perspectives, and acknowledge their contributions and strengths. Avoid arguing, blaming, or judging, and focus on finding common ground and solutions.

3 Empower your client

Another key step to manage family interference is to empower your client to make their own decisions and advocate for themselves. Remind your client that they have the right to choose their own care plan, and that you are there to support them. Help your client identify their goals, preferences, and values, and how they align with the care plan. Encourage your client to express their opinions and wishes to their family, and to set boundaries if needed. Provide your client with resources and referrals that can help them cope and achieve their outcomes.

4 Collaborate with other professionals

Sometimes, you may need to collaborate with other professionals to manage family interference, especially if it involves legal, ethical, or safety issues. For example, you may consult with a lawyer, a social worker, a psychologist, or a mediator to address family conflicts, abuse, neglect, or exploitation. You may also involve other members of your client's care team, such as their doctor, nurse, therapist, or counselor, to provide education, guidance, or support. Make sure you follow the relevant policies and procedures, and document your actions and outcomes.

5 Review and adjust the care plan

Finally, you may need to review and adjust the care plan periodically to account for any changes in your client's situation or needs, or in the level of family interference. You may need to modify the goals, strategies, or interventions to suit your client's preferences and circumstances. You may also need to update the consent, confidentiality, or communication agreements with your client and their family. Monitor your client's progress and satisfaction, and solicit their feedback and input regularly.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?