CHPN Bereavement & Grief Support Flashcards

A hospice team member dies unexpectedly. The bereavement coordinator plans a staff debriefing. What is the primary purpose of this intervention?

Answer: To process the team's grief, normalize reactions, and assess for those needing additional support

Staff debriefing after a colleague's death provides a structured opportunity to normalize grief reactions, express emotions, and identify team members who may need further support.

What is the most appropriate bereavement follow-up timeline for a standard-risk bereaved family member after a hospice patient's death?

Answer: Contact at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12–13 months

Standard bereavement follow-up typically includes contacts at intervals across the first year to monitor grief progression and provide ongoing support through the 13-month benefit period.

A bereaved mother says she feels guilty because she felt relieved when her terminally ill son finally died. The hospice nurse's best response is:

Answer: Normalize her feelings by explaining that relief is a common and understandable response after a prolonged illness

Relief after a prolonged illness is a normal and common grief reaction, and normalizing it helps reduce the survivor's guilt and shame.

Which of the following best describes disenfranchised grief?

Answer: Grief that is not openly acknowledged or socially supported because the relationship or loss is not recognized

Disenfranchised grief occurs when a loss is not publicly mourned or socially validated, such as the grief of an ex-spouse, a secret relationship, or a pet.

A hospice bereavement coordinator is evaluating the effectiveness of the bereavement program. Which outcome measure is most appropriate?

Answer: Bereaved family satisfaction scores and grief symptom screenings at follow-up intervals

Outcome-based evaluation uses validated grief measures and family satisfaction surveys at follow-up points to assess whether the program is meeting bereaved families' needs.

A hospice nurse is caring for a patient in the final hours of life. What is the most important action to support the family present at the bedside?

Answer: Educate the family about signs of approaching death and reassure them their presence is meaningful

Preparing the family for the signs of impending death and affirming their presence reduces fear and helps them feel they are providing comfort to their loved one.