There has been improvement in the health of an elderly patient who has been in hospice care for 6 months. What should the nurse suggest to this patient?

• A. The patient can leave hospice care only when the primary health care provider allows doing so.
• B. The patient must continue for another 6 months in hospice care before leaving.
• C. The patient is in hospice care and is not eligible for curative treatment.
• D. The patient can withdraw from hospice care and can receive other health services.

Answer: (D)

When health improves, the care plan can shift toward goals other than comfort-focused end-of-life care. Hospice is based on goals and prognostic criteria, and participation is voluntary. A patient is not obligated to stay in hospice; they can withdraw at any time if they choose to pursue other health services or curative or disease-modifying treatments.

In this situation, the nurse should support the patient’s autonomy by discussing options with them and their family, help coordinate a transition to available non-hospice services, and ensure ongoing symptom management as needed. Documentation and communication with the primary care provider are important to align the care plan with the patient’s current goals.