Potential hospice patients may be identified by a diagnosis, symptoms or a combination of both.
Below are some signs and symptoms that may indicate a patient is hospice eligible:
Frequent hospitalizations or emergency room visits in the past six months
Unplanned weight loss or unable to feed self
Decrease in ability to perform activities of daily living
Increased or uncontrollable pain
Shortness of breath
Inability to swallow or frequent aspiration
Repeat or multiple infections
Change in mental status
Increased weakness or fatigue
Uncontrolled nausea and vomiting