Pulmonary Disease

Hospice admission guidelines for pulmonary disease

For patients with advanced pulmonary disease progressing to end-stage. Criteria 1 & 2 must be met; criteria 3–5 serve as additional supporting evidence.

1. Severe Chronic Lung Disease

Disabling dyspnea at rest, minimally responsive to bronchodilators
Bed-to-chair mobility, chronic fatigue & coughing
Rising ER/hospital visits or physician home visits for pulmonary issues

2. Resting Hypoxemia / Hypercapnia

pO2 ≤ 55 mmHg or O2 saturation ≤ 88% on room air
Or pCO2 ≥ 50 mmHg (hospital records, past 3 months)

What clinical decline can look like

An illustrative comparison our clinical team may use when assessing disease progression over time.

Changes in Breathing

Labored breathing, pursed lips, barrel chest, persistent cough, tripod posture.

Increased SOB

PPS declined from 50% to 30%; now requires a Hoyer lift instead of a two-person transfer.

Changes in Activity

Once active in group activities, now refrains from participating.

Changes in Intake

Food intake reduced from 100% to 50%, with food pocketing.

Comorbidities

Conditions often seen alongside this diagnosis

Always Ready to Help

Our caring team is here to support you and your loved ones, ready to discuss how our services can bring comfort and peace during this time.

Proudly serving families across Metro Phoenix

Call us at (480) 565-7558 for inquiries.

Proudly serving families across Metro Phoenix

Call us at (480) 565-7558 for inquiries.

Call us anytime