How to achieve a person-centred writing style in care plans

Staff in every type of organisation responsible for the care of older people must assess, set outcomes and devise a plan of care. Many organisations will aspire to a person-centred approach and it is appropriate for nurses and carers to try to reflect this in their care plans and records of care. However, this is not always easy to do because it requires a different style of writing compared with the traditional problem-solving approach. This article sets out some of the principles of person-centred care and provides examples of how to achieve a writing style that fits this approach. It is written with reference to the care home environment, but much of the advice would also be appropriate for staff working in hospital and community settings.