Final answer:
To qualify a patient with a GTT for hospice, the first step is confirming their diabetes mellitus diagnosis. Further investigations, such as ITT or GuTT, are conducted to determine the diabetes type, which aids in deciding hospice eligibility, focusing on dignified, pain-managed care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in qualifying patients with GTT (glucose tolerance test) for hospice is to confirm the patient's diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. If the GTT is positive, indicating that the patient has diabetes, further investigations are needed to determine the type, either insulin dependent or independent. The next tests that are performed are the Insulin Tolerance Test (ITT) and the Glucagon Tolerance Test (GuTT). After the type of diabetes is diagnosed, a comprehensive assessment can be made regarding the patient's eligibility for hospice care. It is essential to understand that hospice care implications for those with terminal illnesses extend beyond standard medical treatment, focusing on providing a dignified and pain-managed end-of-life experience, potentially at the patient's home.
Research has shown that hospice care not only benefits the patient by enabling them to remain at home and not completely dependent on strangers but also tends to result in longer survival compared to non-hospice patients. Additionally, families of hospice patients receive emotional support, a regular update on the treatment and condition of their loved one and experience a reduced burden of care. Both patients and family members report increased family and social support and improved coping while receiving hospice services.