Question

A hospice nurse arrives to make a scheduled visit with a client in a long-term care facility. The nurse is approached by the facility staff who want the client sent to a hospital due to an exacerbation of symptoms. What is the first action the hospice nurse should implement?

A. Explain that the client can be kept comfortable in the long-term care facility
B. Check with the client to see if he wants to go to the hospital
C. Call a hospice care team meeting to discuss the staff's request
D. Discuss the concept of comfort care measures with the staff

Answer 1

The first action a hospice nurse should take when approached by facility staff to send a hospice client to the hospital is to assess the client's wishes and needs, aligning with hospice care principles.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a hospice nurse arrives for a scheduled visit with a client in a long-term care facility and is approached by the facility staff requesting to send the client to a hospital due to an exacerbation of symptoms, the first action the nurse should take would involve evaluating the client's current situation and preferences. Given that hospice care is centered around providing comfort at the end of life, usually outside of a hospital setting, the nurse should assess the client's needs and wishes first (Hospice Foundation of America 2012b). It's important to involve the client in care decisions whenever possible, so the nurse should check with the client to understand their desire regarding the hospital visit. This step respects the client's autonomy and ensures that care aligns with their goals and the fundamental principles of hospice care which emphasize comfort and support in a familiar environment.