CHPN CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Non-Pain Symptom Management Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

A hospice patient with advanced heart failure develops Cheyne-Stokes respirations. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

Accepted Answer

Position the patient for comfort and educate the family that this is a normal end-of-life pattern

Answer

Administer supplemental oxygen at high flow

Answer

Suction the airway every 15 minutes

Answer

Administer a bronchodilator nebulizer treatment

Question 2

Which medication is most commonly used to manage terminal secretions (death rattle) in hospice patients?

Accepted Answer

Glycopyrrolate

Answer

Albuterol

Answer

Furosemide

Answer

Dexamethasone

Question 3

A patient with end-stage liver disease develops ascites causing significant abdominal distension and dyspnea. What non-pharmacological intervention may provide the most relief?

Accepted Answer

Therapeutic paracentesis

Answer

Restricting all oral fluids

Answer

Applying abdominal binders tightly

Answer

Elevating the foot of the bed

Question 4

A hospice nurse is caring for a patient experiencing intractable hiccups lasting over 48 hours. Which medication may be prescribed to manage this symptom?

Accepted Answer

Chlorpromazine

Answer

Ondansetron

Answer

Diphenhydramine

Answer

Acetaminophen

Question 5

What is the primary goal of managing xerostomia (dry mouth) in a hospice patient who is no longer taking oral fluids?

Accepted Answer

Providing comfort and maintaining oral mucosa integrity

Answer

Restoring normal saliva production through hydration

Answer

Preventing aspiration pneumonia

Answer

Ensuring the patient can resume oral medications

Question 6

A patient with advanced COPD on hospice is experiencing severe anxiety and air hunger despite maximal bronchodilator therapy. What is the most appropriate next pharmacological intervention?

Accepted Answer

Administer a low-dose opioid such as morphine

Answer

Increase the bronchodilator frequency to every 2 hours

Answer

Start an SSRI antidepressant for anxiety

Answer

Initiate continuous BiPAP ventilation