In end-of-life discussions, a family asks how long a client has. Which is an appropriate response that also offers discussion of care goals and options?

• A. There is no way to know.
• B. We can't discuss prognosis.
• C. We can talk about goals of care and practical options for leaving work.
• D. This is not something we should discuss.

Answer: (C)

When discussing end-of-life scenarios, the focus should be on honest dialogue about what matters to the patient and how care will be aligned with those goals. The best response invites a conversation about goals of care and practical options for leaving work because it couples meaningful values and preferences with concrete planning. It recognizes that exact timelines can be uncertain, but it uses that reality to shape decisions about treatment aims, comfort, and where and how care will be delivered, including caregiver needs and work arrangements. This approach keeps the patient and family engaged in shared decision making and practical preparation rather than shutting down prognosis or avoiding the topic altogether.