Which of the following best describes the focus of hospice care?

Hospice care is fundamentally centered on maintaining patient comfort and dignity during the end-of-life stage. This approach recognizes the significant emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of patients who are facing terminal illnesses. The primary goal of hospice care is to enhance the quality of life by managing pain and other distressing symptoms, rather than attempting to prolong life through aggressive medical interventions.

Patients in hospice are supported by a team that prioritizes comfort measures, assists with emotional and spiritual concerns, and provides support for families. By fostering an environment where quality of life is central, hospice care allows individuals to spend their remaining time in a manner that is as fulfilling and dignified as possible.

In contrast, other options such as life-extending treatments, conducting clinical trials, and delivering rehabilitation services do not align with the core principles of hospice care. These approaches primarily focus on prolonging life or recovering functionality, which diverges from the hospice philosophy that emphasizes comfort in the final stages of life.