A client has just been referred to hospice care, and the spouse asks t

A client has just been referred to hospice care, and the spouse asks the hospice nurse why the client needs the change in services. The response by the nurse is:

1. “So we can see if there’s any way to improve your spouse’s life.”
2. “There is no need for acute care any longer.”
3. “It’s best for your spouse to be cared for at home.”
4. “Hospice care is cheaper than acute care.”

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: The central concept of the hospice movement is not saving life but improving or maintaining the quality of life until death. Hospice care provides a variety of services given to the terminally ill, their families, and support persons. The place of care varies, but includes home, hospital, or skilled nursing facilities..
Rationale 2: Acute care may be warranted as the client’s condition changes.
Rationale 3: The place of hospice care varies, but includes home, hospital, or skilled nursing facilities.
Rationale 4: Hospice care may well be cheaper, but this is not the main reason for referral to hospice services.