Question

A stage 4 prostate cancer patient has no desire to prolong life. The health services coordinator begins to develop an individualized care plan with the healthcare team. Which action should the health services coordinator take first?

Answer 1

The health services coordinator should first have a discussion with the prostate cancer patient to understand their wishes for end-of-life care and then communicate this to the healthcare team to tailor the care plan accordingly.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a prostate cancer patient with stage 4 prostate cancer expresses no desire to prolong life, the first action the health services coordinator should take is to engage in a thorough and compassionate conversation with the patient to understand their wishes and values regarding end-of-life care. This step will inform the creation of an individualized care plan that aligns with the patient's preferences. The healthcare team, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, must be informed of the patient's desires to provide care that focuses on comfort and quality of life, rather than aggressive treatment aimed at prolonging life.