Question

A home health nurse is caring for a group of older adult clients. The nurse should initiate a referral to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) for which of the following clients?

a. A client with well-managed chronic conditions living independently.
b. A client requiring frequent hospitalizations for complex medical issues.
c. A client with a supportive family providing daily care.
d. A client with mild cognitive impairment and no significant physical health issues.

Answer 1

A referral to PACE is most appropriate for a client requiring frequent hospitalizations for complex medical issues, as the program offers all-inclusive care aimed at preventing nursing home placement and improving care continuity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should initiate a referral to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) for a client requiring frequent hospitalizations for complex medical issues.

PACE programs are designed to provide comprehensive medical and social services to frail, community-dwelling elderly patients who are at risk for nursing home placement. A client who has well-managed chronic conditions and lives independently typically would not require the intense level of support PACE offers. Similarly, clients who have a supportive family network providing daily care, or who have mild cognitive impairment and no significant physical health issues,

generally do not need the all-inclusive care that PACE provides. However, a client with a history of frequent hospitalizations due to complex medical issues would likely benefit from the coordinated and comprehensive care that PACE programs are structured to provide, potentially preventing future hospitalizations and improving overall care continuity.