CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Patient Assessment and Planning Questions and Answers

Question 1

A hospice nurse is using the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) to assess a new patient.
The patient is mainly sitting or lying down, unable to do any work, has extensive disease, and requires considerable assistance with self-care.
They are able to take normal to reduced oral intake and have a full level of consciousness.
Which PPS level BEST represents this patient's status?

Accepted Answer

50%

Answer

70%

Answer

30%

Answer

10%

Question 2

When conducting an initial patient assessment, the hospice nurse utilizes the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS). What is the primary purpose of this tool?

Accepted Answer

To assess the severity of nine common symptoms from the patient's perspective.

Answer

To determine the patient's eligibility for hospice services.

Answer

To measure the patient's functional and ambulatory status.

Answer

To document the patient's advance care planning decisions.

Question 3

Which of the following is the MOST critical initial step in the advance care planning process for a new hospice patient who is capable of making decisions?

Accepted Answer

Engaging the patient in a conversation about their values, goals, and preferences for care.

Answer

Completing a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order immediately.

Answer

Having the patient sign a living will and durable power of attorney for health care.

Answer

Identifying a healthcare proxy or surrogate decision-maker.

Question 4

A 78-year-old male with end-stage COPD is admitted to hospice. During the initial psychosocial assessment, which area is MOST important for the nurse to explore to develop a holistic plan of care?

Accepted Answer

The patient's current coping mechanisms, support systems, and spiritual beliefs.

Answer

The patient's past employment history and career achievements.

Answer

The family's financial resources and insurance coverage.

Answer

The detailed history of the progression of his physical disease.

Question 5

According to the Medicare Conditions of Participation, a comprehensive assessment for a new hospice patient must be completed by the interdisciplinary group (IDG) within how many days of the election of hospice care?

Accepted Answer

5 calendar days

Answer

24 hours

Answer

48 hours

Answer

15 calendar days

Question 6

A patient with advanced dementia is being assessed for hospice care. The nurse notes that the patient is bed-bound, requires total care for all activities of daily living, is largely non-verbal, and has minimal oral intake, primarily receiving sips for comfort. This clinical presentation aligns with which prognostic indicator tool?

Accepted Answer

Functional Assessment Staging Test (FAST)

Answer

Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS)

Answer

Braden Scale

Answer

Morse Fall Scale