A terminally ill patient has asked that any treatments be eliminated that will not add years to his life since they are just a waste of money and cause him more pain. The nurse realizes that this patient's decision will do which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Open and clear communication at the end of life has an economic impact, often helping to eliminate unnecessary and unwanted treatments, as well as reducing length of stay in acute care units. Reduction in costs related to human suffering is also a benefit of ongoing communication. The patient has made a decision to stop the treatments because of money and possible pain. This decision will not speed up the patient's recovery. There is no way of knowing if the patient will be discharged to home or will need home care. There is also no way of knowing if this decision will anger the physician and lead to an untimely death of the patient.

A Terminally Ill Patient Has Asked That Any Treatments Be