A patient diagnosed with terminal cancer asks the nurse what the criteria are for hospice care. Which information should the nurse share with the patient?

Choice A reason: While hospice provides pain management, this is not the primary criterion. Many patients receive pain management outside hospice. The defining factor is a prognosis of less than 6 months, making this choice incomplete and less accurate for explaining hospice eligibility. Choice B reason: Having a terminal illness like cancer is relevant, but not all terminal patients qualify for hospice. The key criterion is a life expectancy of 6 months or less, as determined by a physician. This choice is too broad and lacks specificity, making it incorrect. Choice C reason: An advance directive is not required for hospice eligibility, though it may guide care decisions. Hospice focuses on prognosis, not legal documentation. This criterion is irrelevant to qualifying for hospice services, making it an incorrect choice for the nurse to share. Choice D reason: Hospice care is for patients with a prognosis of 6 months or less, as certified by a physician. This criterion, per Medicare and hospice guidelines, defines eligibility for terminal cancer patients, ensuring comprehensive end-of-life care. This is the most accurate information for the nurse to share.