An alert and oriented patient verbalizes complete understanding and agrees to hospice admission. The patient is exhausted and weak, asking that their spouse signs the admission documents. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate response by the nurse?

While verbal consent can be appropriate in some situations, it is not sufficient for formal admission processes, especially in hospice care. Written consent is required to ensure that the patient fully understands and agrees to the care plan, which cannot be substituted by verbal agreement alone.

Delaying the signing of admission documents is not advisable, particularly when the patient is alert and oriented. This response risks prolonging the admission process and may create unnecessary stress for the patient and their family, especially if they are already feeling exhausted and weak.

Allowing the spouse to sign the documents undermines the patient's autonomy and ability to provide informed consent. Even if the patient feels exhausted, it is crucial that they sign themselves to ensure that they are fully aware of and agree to the hospice care being provided.