Final answer:
A baseline care plan must be created within 48 hours after patient admission to establish immediate care needs and ensure appropriate services are provided promptly.
Step-by-step explanation:
A baseline care plan must be created within 48 hours of a patient's admission. This care plan is essential for establishing immediate care needs and preferences, ensuring that appropriate care and services are provided to the individual from the outset of their stay in a healthcare facility. The care plan should include initial goals based on admission orders, physician instructions, dietary requirements, therapy services, and social services, if applicable.