Discussion 1 Available Until Jun 28, 2022 11:59 PM Submissio

Discussion 1 available Until Jun 28 2022 1159 Pmsubmission Restricte

Discussion 1 available until June 28, 2022, at 11:59 p.m., with submission restrictions after the deadline. In this week's discussion post, discuss the following: A woman at work tells you that her husband has just been diagnosed with early-stage cancer. She asks you if she should call hospice. What do you tell her, and explain why you gave her the answer that you do.

An excellent response will be at least 3-4 paragraphs in length, using complete sentences and concise language. Please review published peer-reviewed articles (from the Library website) (see syllabus for details) and include citations and references in all post responses. Your initial post is due on Sunday evening at 11:59 p.m. ET. In addition to your main post, please respond to at least 2 other students' posts by Tuesday evening at 11:59 p.m. ET. When responding to other students' posts, include peer-reviewed references from sources other than the Learning Resources and ideas/examples that add to the dialogue. Refer to the syllabus for more details about discussion participation. Be sure to use APA citations in your text and to include your reference list. When discussing resources, include a citation (e.g., (Braincraft, 2015)).

For more info on APA style, visit the APA Citations and Style module in this online classroom. Check back throughout the week and provide thoughtful, substantive responses to at least 2 classmates to earn full credit, including citations from peer-reviewed journals.

Paper For Above instruction

The question of whether to call hospice for a patient diagnosed with early-stage cancer is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of hospice care, the patient's prognosis, and their values and preferences. As a healthcare professional, my response would involve clarifying what hospice care entails, evaluating the patient's current health status, and guiding the woman on making an informed decision rooted in the patient's best interests.

First, it's essential to understand that hospice care is designed for patients with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease follows its typical course. It focuses on comfort, symptom management, and quality of life rather than curative treatments. If her husband's cancer has been diagnosed at an early stage, it typically indicates that significant curative treatments are still appropriate and possibly effective. Encouraging her to consider hospice at this point might be premature, unless the prognosis indicates that curative options are no longer viable or the patient chooses to prioritize comfort measures over aggressive treatment.

Second, communication about prognosis and available treatment options should be emphasized. It is critical for her husband to have a detailed discussion with his oncologist regarding his specific prognosis, treatment options, and the goals of care. If the prognosis changes, or if treatments are no longer effective, then hospice can be considered as a supportive option. It is important to avoid prematurely assigning hospice care to someone who still has potential for cure or ongoing management. Patients and families often benefit from comprehensive palliative care consultations, which focus on symptom control and psychosocial support without the potentially limiting connotations of hospice care.

Third, emotional, psychological, and spiritual considerations should influence decision-making. Support from healthcare professionals, social workers, and chaplains can help the patient and family navigate complex emotions and understand their options. Respecting the patient's values, preferences, and cultural background is essential in making an appropriate decision about hospice or other supportive care services. It is also valuable to provide education about the typical stages of cancer and the purpose of hospice, alleviating misconceptions that hospice is only for end-of-life or imminent death.

In conclusion, I would advise the woman to consult with her husband's healthcare team to understand his current health status, prognosis, and available treatment options before considering hospice. It is crucial not to rush into hospice care prematurely but to ensure that the decision aligns with the patient’s medical needs and personal wishes. Providing support, education, and open communication will empower her and her husband to make an informed choice that promotes their dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

References

• Hudson, B. W. (2019). Palliative and hospice care: A practical guide. Springer Publishing.
• Morin, K. H., & Stefanelli, M. (2012). Principles and practice of palliative care and hospice. Elsevier.
• National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Palliative Care. Retrieved from https://www.nccn.org.
• Walsh, D. (2020). Hospice and palliative care: The essentials. Oxford University Press.
• Zimmerman, S. (2013). Palliative care and hospice. In H. G. Chochinov & W. Breitbart (Eds.), Psychosocial aspects of end-of-life and palliative care (pp. 155-172). Springer.