CHPN Basic Questions 3

Question 1

A patient on hospice develops new-onset seizures. Which medication is most appropriate for sublingual or buccal administration at home?

Accepted Answer

Lorazepam buccal or midazolam intranasal

Answer

Buccal lorazepam or intranasal midazolam allows rapid seizure management at home when IV access is unavailable.

Question 2

Which is the MOST common complication of long-term opioid therapy requiring prophylactic treatment in hospice patients?

Accepted Answer

Constipation

Answer

Unlike most opioid side effects, constipation does not diminish with time and requires scheduled laxative prophylaxis.

Question 3

A patient with end-stage COPD reports air hunger rated 8/10. Their respiratory rate is 28 and O2 sat is 78%. The MOST appropriate intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Administer a low-dose opioid as ordered for dyspnea

Answer

Low-dose opioids are the most effective pharmacologic treatment for refractory dyspnea in end-stage disease and are a hospice standard.

Question 4

In the Kübler-Ross model, which stage involves the patient making deals with God or fate in hopes of prolonging life?

Accepted Answer

Bargaining

Answer

Bargaining is characterized by 'if only' statements and attempts to negotiate more time, often with a higher power.

Question 5

A hospice nurse notices a caregiver has not left the home in two weeks and appears exhausted. The PRIORITY intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Arrange inpatient respite care to relieve the caregiver

Answer

Inpatient respite care, covered by Medicare Hospice Benefit for up to 5 consecutive days, directly addresses caregiver burnout.

CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Practice Test