Final answer:
When a parent of a terminally ill child expresses difficulty coping, the nurse should suggest they discuss their feelings with a counselor. This approach provides supportive and constructive assistance, aligning with hospice care goals of comfort for the patient and support for the family.
Step-by-step explanation:
The appropriate response for a hospice nurse when a parent of a terminally ill preschooler expresses the desire to move out due to difficulty coping would be, "Have you discussed your feelings with a counselor?" This statement is empathic and suggests a constructive way to seek support, rather than making a judgment on the parent's capacities or the rightness of their potential decision. The nurse maintains professionalism and offers an avenue for the parent to explore their feelings and options with a professional who is trained to handle such sensitive circumstances.
Hospice care is designed not only to provide comfort and dignity to the patient in their final days but also to support the family members through this challenging time. It leverages a team approach, including special training for nurses to care for those at the end of life, as well as offering emotional support and counseling to help family members cope with the impending loss and the burden of care. Empathetic communication and appropriate referrals are essential components of hospice care.