An adult patient hastening her death mentions she has stopped eating and drinking. What should be your first response?

The most appropriate first response in this situation is to explore her suffering and motivation for hastening her death. This approach demonstrates empathy and allows for an open dialogue regarding her feelings and circumstances. Understanding her emotions and reasons behind her choice is vital in palliative care, as it helps to address her suffering and may uncover underlying issues that need attention.

Taking this avenue encourages the patient to express her thoughts and feelings, which is essential in providing appropriate support and care. Palliative care focuses on quality of life and the relief of distressing symptoms, so understanding the patient's perspective is key to identifying how best to meet her needs at this critical time.

Other options, while important in certain contexts, do not address the urgency of the patient's emotional and psychological state. Encouragement to reconsider her decision or discussing the consequences might come later but could be perceived as dismissive of her autonomy or suffering. Suggesting meditation or relaxation techniques may not be helpful without first understanding the core issues driving her choice to hasten death. Engaging in a meaningful conversation about her motivations lays the groundwork for a supportive environment where further care options can be explored.