CT Hospice & Palliative Principles 3

Question 1

In the final hours of life, which respiratory pattern is characterized by alternating periods of apnea and hyperpnea?

Accepted Answer

Cheyne-Stokes respiration

Answer

Cheyne-Stokes respiration, common near death, features cyclical crescendo-decrescendo breathing alternating with apneic pauses.

Question 2

Which ethical principle is MOST directly upheld when a hospice patient completes a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

POLST translates a patient's wishes into actionable medical orders, directly honoring the principle of patient autonomy.

Question 3

A palliative care team is caring for a patient with refractory dyspnea. Evidence-based first-line pharmacological management includes:

Accepted Answer

Low-dose systemic opioids

Answer

Low-dose opioids are the evidence-based first-line treatment for refractory dyspnea in palliative care, reducing the subjective sensation of breathlessness.

Question 4

Which of the following BEST describes 'anticipatory grief'?

Accepted Answer

Mourning that occurs in advance of an expected loss, experienced by patients and families

Answer

Anticipatory grief is a normal response to an impending loss, allowing patients and families to begin processing the death before it occurs.

Question 5

Which statement BEST differentiates hospice care from general palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Hospice requires a prognosis of 6 months or less and focuses solely on comfort, while palliative care can begin at any illness stage alongside curative treatment

Answer

Hospice is a specific program for those with a terminal prognosis who forgo curative treatment, whereas palliative care is a broader approach applicable at any disease stage.

(CT) Certified Thanatologist Practice Test

(CT) Certified Thanatologist Practice Test

CT Hospice & Palliative Principles 3