Which of the following is a primary focus of palliative care nurses?

Palliative care nurses prioritize maintaining the quality of life for patients who are facing serious, life-limiting illnesses. This focus involves addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional, spiritual, and social needs of the patient and their families. By emphasizing comfort, relief from pain, and support during challenging times, palliative care aims to enhance the overall well-being of patients, irrespective of the stage of their illness.

In contrast, providing curative treatments may not align with the philosophy of palliative care, which seeks to alleviate suffering rather than cure the underlying disease. Monitoring vital signs is an important aspect of patient care, yet it is only part of a broader holistic approach that includes patient comfort and family support. Discharging patients quickly does not typically reflect the values of palliative care, where the focus is on comprehensive and compassionate management of the patient’s needs rather than the speed of discharge.