CHPNA Pain and Symptom Management 2

Question 1

Dyspnea in a dying patient is best described as:

Accepted Answer

The subjective sensation of difficulty or discomfort in breathing

Answer

Dyspnea is the subjective experience of breathlessness or difficulty breathing and can occur even when oxygen levels appear normal.

Question 2

Which of the following comfort measures can help a patient experiencing dyspnea?

Accepted Answer

Positioning the patient upright and using a fan directed at the face

Answer

Elevating the head of the bed and directing a gentle fan toward the patient's face can reduce the sensation of breathlessness by stimulating receptors in the nasal passage.

Question 3

What is 'death rattle' and how should the nursing assistant respond?

Accepted Answer

Noisy breathing from secretions in the throat; reposition gently and reassure the family

Answer

Death rattle refers to the gurgling or rattling sound caused by secretions pooling in the throat of a dying patient; repositioning and family education are appropriate responses.

Question 4

Constipation in hospice patients is most commonly caused by:

Accepted Answer

Opioid medications, reduced mobility, and decreased intake

Answer

Constipation in hospice patients is commonly caused by opioid-induced slowing of the bowel, reduced physical activity, and decreased food and fluid intake.

Question 5

Which symptom is characterized by a persistent feeling of nausea and inability to eat?

Accepted Answer

Anorexia-cachexia syndrome

Answer

Anorexia-cachexia syndrome is common in terminal illness and involves loss of appetite, weight loss, and metabolic changes that reduce the desire and ability to eat.

CHPNA - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant Practice Test

CHPNA - Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant Practice Test

CHPNA Pain and Symptom Management 2