During the terminal care phase, what should be discontinued to align with goals of care?

In the terminal care phase, the focus shifts to comfort, dignity, and quality of life rather than aggressive treatment or monitoring that may not enhance the patient's wellbeing. Discontinuing routine lab tests aligns with these goals of care, as ongoing laboratory monitoring can lead to interventions or treatments that are not in the best interest of a patient who is nearing end-of-life. The aim is to avoid unnecessary discomfort or stress from procedures that do not contribute positively to the patient's experience.

Routine vital signs checks and medications may still be warranted depending on the individual patient's situation and comfort measures. Family visits are typically encouraged to support both the patient and the family during this time. Hence, pausing routine lab tests allows for a more compassionate approach that respects the patient’s needs for comfort and relief from potential medical burdens.