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

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are a common end-of-life breathing pattern, and the priority is comfort positioning and family education rather than aggressive interventions.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Glycopyrrolate

Answer

Glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic agent that reduces secretion production and is a first-line treatment for terminal secretions.

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

Therapeutic paracentesis directly removes accumulated fluid from the peritoneal cavity, providing immediate relief of pressure-related symptoms.

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

Chlorpromazine is FDA-approved for intractable hiccups and acts on the hiccup reflex arc through dopamine receptor blockade.

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

In hospice care, managing xerostomia focuses on comfort through mouth care, moisturizers, and maintaining mucosal integrity rather than curative goals.

CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Practice Test

CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Practice Test

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