what questions do you ask a cancer paitent when they first begin to use hospice?

Question

DO YOU ASK QUESTIONS SUCH AS THEIR WISHES ABOUT FUNERALS & ETC?

Answer 1

You let them lead. You make certain that they know they can say anything at all to you, and you let them take the lead.

The hospice patient is the dying one, and it's about them, not about you.

Answer 2

Yes. When hospice is involved it is at a point, where all involved know that the person isn't going to survive. Most individuals want to discuss it, and it should be discussed. However, there are those few instances where the individual still can't come to terms with it, then you have to accept there wishes.

This is the time not only to discuss funerals, but let them know how much you love and care about them. No holds bar, just let them know.

It is a difficult period. I have been through it several times with Hospice. They are great and will help and guide you also.

My thoughts are with you

Answer 3

I am assuming you are the caregiver/family member. People on hospice know they are going to die. It's not a secret to them. That being said...you can always present the question as such "Let me know when you feel like discussing end of life issues with me. I know it is an uneasy subject, but getting these matters out of the way will make it easier." Something to that effect is ok. I seriously doubt that someone who is dying would want to leave all of their affairs in disarray for whoever is supposed to take care of them in the end. Although it is an uneasy subject, it is still a part of life and responsibility. I know this from personal experience. Just had my dad pass away 12/22 who came home on hospice. He wanted to ammend his will too. After all matters of legal substance and personal requests were taken care of, he died. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

you can talk about their family and friends