A nurse is caring for a client who has cancer. The client and her partner are asking the nurse about hospice care. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A reason: This statement is correct, as hospice care provides comprehensive and compassionate care for clients who have a life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice care involves a team of health care professionals, such as physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, who address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the client and their family.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care is not intended for clients at various stages of chronic illness. Hospice care is only for clients who are terminally ill and have decided to forego curative or aggressive treatments.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care does not prolong the life expectancy of clients who are terminally ill. Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life and comfort of the client, not on extending their life span.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospital access is still available for clients who are in hospice care. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, such as the client's home, a hospice facility, a nursing home, or a hospital. Clients who are in hospice care can still be admitted to the hospital if they need acute care or symptom management.

Choice A reason: A living will does not provide protection against malpractice. It is a legal document that expresses the client's wishes regarding medical care in the event of a terminal illness or injury.

Choice B reason: A living will does not designate a health care surrogate to make health care decisions. A health care surrogate is a person who is authorized by the client or the court to make health care decisions for the client when the client is unable to do so.

Choice C reason: A living will does not document that the client gave informed consent. Informed consent is the process of obtaining the client's voluntary agreement to a proposed treatment or procedure after providing adequate information about the benefits, risks, and alternatives.

Choice D reason: A living will allows the client to refuse life-sustaining treatments. This is the main purpose of a living will, as it gives the client the right to self-determination and autonomy over their own body and health.