When must a facility notify a resident of a change in services?

The correct answer is based on the requirement for facilities to provide adequate notice to residents regarding any changes in services. In a residential care setting, it is important for residents to be informed well in advance to allow them sufficient time to understand how these changes may affect their care and daily living situation. By notifying residents as soon as possible, but no less than 30 days prior to the change, the facility ensures that residents have the opportunity to ask questions, express concerns, or make necessary adjustments in preparation for the change. This approach fosters transparency and supports the residents' right to be involved in their own care decisions.

The other options do not provide a suitable timeframe for notification. Notifying residents within 48 hours may not allow enough time for them to adjust to significant changes in their services. Immediate notification might not be practical, especially if the decision process involves multiple steps. Scheduling a notification for the next resident meeting could lead to delays in communication, preventing residents from receiving timely information needed for their care decisions.