A community health nurse is providing teaching to a client who speaks a different language. Which of the following findings should the nurse document as an indication that the client understands the teaching?

Choice A: The client’s insurance provides coverage for palliative care

This option is incorrect. While insurance coverage for palliative care is important, it is not a qualifying criterion for hospice care. Hospice care eligibility is primarily based on the patient’s medical condition and prognosis, not on insurance coverage.

Choice B: The client has declined additional life prolonging treatments

This option is correct. One of the key criteria for hospice care is that the patient must choose palliative care (comfort care) over curative treatments. This means the patient has decided to stop treatments aimed at prolonging life and instead focus on quality of life and symptom management.

Choice C: The client requires inpatient care due to lack of a caregiver

This option is incorrect. While the need for inpatient care can be a factor in the type of hospice services provided, it is not a criterion for qualifying for hospice care. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including the patient’s home, regardless of caregiver availability.

Choice D: The client has documentation stating he has less than 12 months to live

This option is incorrect. The standard criterion for hospice care is a prognosis of six months or less to live if the disease follows its usual course. Documentation stating a life expectancy of less than 12 months does not meet the hospice eligibility requirement.

Choice A reason: Teaching the client about appropriate food choices is an important intervention for diabetes mellitus, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to assess the client's current dietary habits and preferences before providing education.

Choice B reason: Referring the client to a diabetes mellitus support group is a helpful strategy to promote coping and self-management, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to address the client's immediate needs and priorities before making referrals.

Choice C reason: Identifying the client's dietary preferences is the first action the nurse should take. This is an assessment step that will help the nurse tailor the nutritional program to the client's individual needs and preferences. It will also help the nurse establish rapport and trust with the client.

Choice D reason: Developing a nutritional program is a planning step that requires assessment data. The nurse should not develop a nutritional program without first identifying the client's dietary preferences and needs.