Which of the following interventions is considered cost-effective when caring for terminally ill clients?

Providing palliative care to terminally ill clients is seen as a cost-effective intervention primarily because it focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and managing symptoms effectively, rather than solely prolonging life. In terminal illness, the goal shifts from curative treatment to comfort and supportive care. Palliative care addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of both the patient and their family, often leading to reduced hospitalization and healthcare costs due to better symptom management and enhanced patient satisfaction. This holistic approach can prevent unnecessary medical interventions that might not contribute to the patient's overall well-being.

While the other choices may have their own value in specific contexts, they do not directly align with the core focus of terminal care. For example, discharge planning is essential for transitioning care but does not specifically cater to the needs of terminally ill clients. Counseling on smoking cessation and educating parents on immunizations are preventive measures that target earlier stages of health rather than addressing the unique needs of those at the end of life. Thus, palliative care stands out as the most fitting and economically sensible choice for this population.