A hospice patient on a terminal illness asks about feeding, and family members press for fluids. Which nursing response is most appropriate?

A hospice patient on a terminal illness asks about feeding, and family members press for fluids. Which nursing response is most appropriate?

• A. It is unsafe to feed her as she is no longer able to swallow.
• B. Hunger signals may be present; offer water
• C. The patient needs fluid intake to stay hydrated
• D. We should insert IV fluids immediately

Answer: (D)

In hospice care, the priority is comfort and honoring the patient’s wishes. Hydration at the end of life is about relieving distress, not prolonging life with invasive measures. If thirst is present or the mouth is dry, offering small sips of water and providing good oral care or ice chips can restore comfort without adding burdens. Large or ongoing IV fluids are not routinely used in this setting because they can cause edema, increase secretions, and provoke discomfort or respiratory symptoms, and they bypass the patient’s expressed preferences. So the most appropriate approach is to assess for thirst and offer water as desired, respecting the patient’s comfort and goals.

In hospice care, the priority is comfort and honoring the patient’s wishes. Hydration at the end of life is about relieving distress, not prolonging life with invasive measures. If thirst is present or the mouth is dry, offering small sips of water and providing good oral care or ice chips can restore comfort without adding burdens. Large or ongoing IV fluids are not routinely used in this setting because they can cause edema, increase secretions, and provoke discomfort or respiratory symptoms, and they bypass the patient’s expressed preferences. So the most appropriate approach is to assess for thirst and offer water as desired, respecting the patient’s comfort and goals.