A nurse is teaching a client who has a terminal illness about hospice care. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching? (Select all that apply.)

Explanation: Heroin is a central nervous system depressant that can cause various physiological effects on the body. Dilated pupils are a common sign of heroin use, along with a decrease in blood pressure, respiratory rate, and heart rate. The pupils will appear larger than usual because heroin depresses the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the size of the pupils.

Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is not typically associated with heroin use, as it is a central nervous system depressant. Euphoria, or a feeling of intense pleasure or happiness, is a common effect of heroin use, but it is not the most reliable sign of heroin use, as other drugs can also produce this effect. Nystagmus, an involuntary movement of the eyes, is not a common sign of heroin use. Dilated pupils are a reliable sign of heroin use and should be documented in the client's medical record. It is important for the nurse to assess for other signs of drug use and to provide appropriate care and support to the client, which may include referrals for substance abuse treatment. The nurse should also follow agency policies and procedures for reporting drug use and abuse to appropriate authorities.

​​​​​​​

A.While insurance coverage is important, it is not a criterion for qualifying for hospice care. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support to terminally ill patients, regardless of insurance coverage.

B.Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including the home, hospice facilities, or inpatient units. The need for inpatient care due to a lack of a caregiver is not a criterion for hospice eligibility; rather, hospice focuses on the terminal nature of the illness.

C.Hospice careis a service for people with serious illnesses who choose not to get (or continue) treatment to cure or control their illness. People may choose to enroll in hospice care if the treatment is unlikely to be effective or if continuing it has become too burdensome.

D.Choice D states that the client has documentation stating they have less than 12 months to live. However, for hospice care eligibility, the standard criterion is a life expectancy ofsix months or less, as certified by a physician. This is a key distinction, as hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support during the final months of life, rather than extending life expectancy.