AAC End-of-Life & Palliative Care 3

Question 1

Which of the following is a hallmark sign of the active dying phase in a person with late-stage Alzheimer's?

Accepted Answer

Mottled skin and Cheyne-Stokes breathing

Answer

Mottled skin (livedo reticularis) and Cheyne-Stokes irregular breathing are classic signs that death is imminent, typically within hours to days.

Question 2

In the hospice philosophy, the primary goal of care for a person with end-stage Alzheimer's is to:

Accepted Answer

Maximize comfort and quality of life

Answer

Hospice care focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life rather than curative or life-prolonging treatments.

Question 3

Which team member is primarily responsible for addressing spiritual distress during the dying process?

Accepted Answer

The hospice chaplain or spiritual care provider

Answer

Chaplains and spiritual care providers are trained to address existential, religious, and spiritual distress for both patients and families during end of life.

Question 4

When a person with Alzheimer's begins refusing all food and fluids, the care team should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Assess for reversible causes such as dental pain or medication side effects

Answer

Before concluding refusal is a natural end-of-life process, caregivers should rule out treatable causes like mouth pain, dysphagia, depression, or uncomfortable positioning.

Question 5

Which of the following BEST describes 'comfort-focused care' in late-stage Alzheimer's?

Accepted Answer

Care that prioritizes symptom relief and avoids burdensome interventions

Answer

Comfort-focused care minimizes painful or burdensome procedures and maximizes symptom management, emotional support, and dignity.

(AAC) Alzheimer's Association Certification Practice Test

(AAC) Alzheimer's Association Certification Practice Test

AAC End-of-Life & Palliative Care 3