A home health aide must always respect a client's dying wishes.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

Respecting a client's dying wishes is essential because it honors their autonomy and preserves dignity at the end of life. A home health aide should listen to and implement the client's preferences regarding comfort measures, pain control, resuscitation status, place of death, and who may be present, as long as those wishes are clearly communicated and within legal and agency guidelines. If the client can make decisions, their choices must guide the care provided. If they cannot, follow advance directives or a legally authorized surrogate's guidance, and involve a supervisor to ensure policies and laws are followed. Always avoid imposing personal beliefs, and seek clarification or escalation when directives are unclear.