End of Life and Palliative Care Flashcards
8 cards from real CAREGIVER practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 8 End of Life and Palliative Care flashcards as text
What is the primary difference between a DNR and a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)?
Answer: POLST covers a broader range of end-of-life wishes including intubation, hospitalization, and artificial nutrition
A POLST is a more comprehensive document than a DNR, covering multiple end-of-life treatment preferences beyond just resuscitation.
A caregiver notices a hospice resident has developed mottled, blue-gray skin on her knees and feet and has not urinated in 12 hours. What should the caregiver do?
Answer: Document observations and immediately notify the nurse
Mottling and absent urine output are signs of active dying that must be documented and reported to the nurse so families can be notified and comfort measures can be ensured.
Which statement about providing care to a deceased resident before the family arrives is correct?
Answer: Post-mortem care should be performed according to facility policy with dignity and respect
Post-mortem care is performed according to facility policy with dignity and respect for the deceased person and their family.
What is the purpose of an advance directive?
Answer: To document a person's wishes for medical care if they become unable to speak for themselves
An advance directive is a legal document in which a person specifies their wishes for medical care if they become incapacitated and unable to make decisions.
When a resident expresses fear about dying, which response from a caregiver is most therapeutic?
Answer: Sit with the resident, listen attentively, and acknowledge their feelings
Sitting with the resident and attentively acknowledging their feelings demonstrates presence, empathy, and therapeutic communication.
Which of the following medications is most commonly used for pain management in hospice care?
Answer: Opioids such as morphine
Opioids, particularly morphine, are the cornerstone of pain management in hospice and palliative care due to their effectiveness for severe pain and dyspnea.
What is bereavement support in the context of hospice care?
Answer: Emotional and counseling support provided to family members after the patient's death
Bereavement support is emotional and counseling support provided to family members and loved ones after the death of a hospice patient.
A hospice resident's family member asks the caregiver if their loved one is in pain. The caregiver has no formal pain assessment data. What is the best response?
Answer: Explain that you will check with the nurse who can perform a pain assessment and provide accurate information
Referring the family to the nurse ensures they receive accurate information based on proper assessment rather than potentially incorrect reassurance from the caregiver.