CHPN Study Guide 5

Question 1

Which factor is the STRONGEST predictor of complicated grief in a bereaved family member after a hospice patient dies?

Accepted Answer

A prior history of depression, a traumatic or sudden death, or lack of social support

Answer

Risk factors for complicated grief include prior mental health history, traumatic circumstances of the death, and inadequate social support systems.

Question 2

A patient with end-stage renal disease on hospice develops uremic pruritus. Which intervention is MOST appropriate as a first-line comfort measure?

Accepted Answer

Topical emollients and antihistamines (e.g., hydroxyzine), with gabapentin for refractory cases

Answer

Uremic pruritus is first managed with skin moisturization and antihistamines, with gabapentin added for refractory itch.

Question 3

The interdisciplinary team in hospice MUST include which core members per Medicare Conditions of Participation?

Accepted Answer

Physician, registered nurse, social worker, and pastoral or counseling services

Answer

Medicare requires the hospice IDT to include a physician, RN, social worker, and pastoral/counseling services at minimum.

Question 4

A terminally ill patient scores 8/10 on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) for anxiety. Which pharmacologic intervention would the nurse anticipate?

Accepted Answer

Administering a short-acting benzodiazepine such as lorazepam for rapid relief

Answer

Short-acting benzodiazepines provide rapid relief for acute anxiety in terminal illness while longer-term therapies are considered.

Question 5

Which statement about the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

A PPS of 10-20% correlates with total dependence and minimal oral intake, suggesting death within days to weeks

Answer

PPS 10-20% indicates total dependence, mouth care only or no intake, and typically correlates with death within days to weeks.

CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Practice Test

CHPN - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse Practice Test

CHPN Study Guide 5