What constitutes a sufficient basis for an agent to contact a nursing home resident?

The correct answer includes the aspect of obtaining written consent from the resident, which is essential when an agent wishes to contact a nursing home resident. This written consent serves as a clear and formal acknowledgment that the resident is aware of and has agreed to being contacted, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and ethical standards.

Written consent protects the rights of the resident and upholds their autonomy, allowing them to make informed decisions about who can communicate with them regarding their healthcare and associated matters. It establishes a solid legal basis for the interaction and demonstrates respect for the resident’s wishes and privacy.

In contrast, general market survey consent does not specifically validate the agent's ability to contact an individual resident directly, as it is more about aggregate data collection rather than personalized outreach. A prior hospital discharge summary may provide useful medical context but does not grant permission for direct contact. Similarly, a verbal agreement with a family member lacks the formal documentation required to proceed safely and ethically, as it might not reflect the individual's wishes directly. Therefore, the necessity for written consent underscores the importance of clear and formal communication practices in sensitive environments such as nursing homes.