Which of the following is NOT listed as a top priority for patients with terminal illness?

• A. Avoiding suffering
• B. Being with family
• C. Pursuing aggressive, high-risk experiments
• D. Not becoming a burden to others

Answer: (C)

In end-of-life care, the focus is on what helps a patient live the remaining time with comfort, meaning, and dignity. The highest priorities typically include avoiding or minimizing suffering, being present with family, and not becoming a burden to others. These aims shape decisions toward symptom control, comfort, and preserving meaningful connections.

Pursuing aggressive, high-risk experiments usually conflicts with those goals. Such approaches can bring substantial physical and emotional burdens, uncertain or marginal benefit, and a longer dying process, which can undermine comfort, reduce time with loved ones, and increase the sense of being a burden. While some patients may choose to pursue experimental options, they are not among the most common top priorities compared with avoiding suffering, staying connected with family, and not burdening others.