Jewish Client
When discussing medical care with Sara, one must keep in mind that she is alone now, having been married for 50 years, but now widowed. She seems to have a rather active social circle, and is more of a middle-of -- the road practitioner of Judaism. Her belief system is likely sensitive to end-of-life issues, but she seems to be a candidate for hospice, rather than palliative care due to her age and the progression of her illness.
In response to Sara's initial decision to have surgery and treat the cancer with chemotherapy, medical personnel would be required to allow her this choice, but ensure that the principles of fidelity and benevolence are followerd. In other words, tell Sara the truth about odds and any prognosis, as well as side-effects. Inform her in a way that is non-paternalistic so that she may make up her own mind about options. In effect, this is her choice as long as she is able to make an informed and uncorerced decision (Egedorf, 2005).
Within the initial patient interview, one might simply ask Sara about her religious practices and beliefs, particularly in the context of spiritual support. One could ask if she has a Rabbi that she would like to visit, or inform any Rabbinacal visitor/volunteer to the hospital to stop by and assess Sara's needs.
4) Sara likely has so many visitors because she had a long life in the community, perhaps the synagogue as well, with many friends and family over the past five decades. It is also likely that she and her family have made business and personal contacts within the community for a number of generations, and in addition Sara is likely a kind and popular person.
5) Hospice care is appropriate for Sara (see #1). This is typically focsed on those with a terminal prognosis after all attempts to cure have failed and is a comfort-focused approach. The goal, of course, is to minimize or eliminate suffering and provide support for the best quality of life that the person may have during their end stages (Jewish Home Lifecare, 2013).
REFERENCES
Edgedorf, L. (2005). Medical Ethics. New York: Greenhaven Pres.
Jewish Home Lifecare (2013). How Does Pallative Care Differ From Hospice Care? Retrieved from: http://www.jewishhome.org/our-services/palliative-care/how-does-palliative-care-differ-from-hospice-care
