Hospice
End-of-life care emphasizing comfort rather than cure
Definition
Hospice is a philosophy and model of care that focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for people with a terminal illness and life expectancy of six months or less. It addresses physical, emotional, spiritual, and family needs.
Eligibility
Two physicians certify a prognosis of ≤6 months. Patient agrees to forgo curative treatment. Services covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances.
Core Services
- Pain and symptom management
- Emotional and spiritual support
- Bereavement services for family (13 months post-death)
- Care coordination
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Volunteer support
Nursing Considerations
Focus on comfort. Manage pain with scheduled opioids (not PRN). Address dyspnea, nausea, agitation, such as oral care, skin care, repositioning for comfort. Listen to patient and family, such as respect cultural, spiritual, and personal preferences. Do not hasten or delay death.
NCLEX Relevance
Comfort-focused, not cure-focused. Scheduled opioids for pain.