E. L. is an 88-year-old widow who has advanced dementia. She is a retired secretary and is cared for in the home of her divorced daughter, who is her power of attorney for health affairs. E. L. requires assistance with all activities of daily living. She spends most of the day sitting in her orthopedic recliner (she has had bilateral hip replacements) or lying in bed. She does not speak or acknowledge the presence of others. Recently, E. L. has stopped eating all meals except for small banana slices. She resists a spoon when it is brought to her mouth, and she pockets food in her cheeks without swallowing. E. L. was admitted to the hospital several months ago for influenza and bilateral pneumonia. She was treated in the intensive care unit for three days and then sent home. The possibility of a feeding tube insertion was discussed during her hospitalization. E. L.’s daughter is seeking guidance on artificial nutrition and hydration.

Use the assigned readings to guide you in the development of five discussion points
Discussions points should reflect best practices that you will include as you speak with E. L.’s daughter regarding her mother’s end-of-life care.
Cite your references in proper APA Style.

SAMPLE SOLUTION

End of Life
End-of-life is health care given to a person nearing the end of their life or in the advanced stage of a terminal illness. A patient suffering from a terminal disease requires advanced long-term care from family members or nurses. Family members should devote themselves to ensuring that the patient acquires the basic care physically, psychologically, mentally, and socially to the last moment of life.
The case of E.L, who is at the advanced stage of a terminal illness, her daughter who cares for her is a relevant case study of examining the best practices for end-of-life care. End-of-life care includes physical, spiritual, and social support to the patient and…