CHPN Ethical & Legal Issues in End-of-Life Care

Question 1

What is informed consent?

Accepted Answer

Patient agreement

Answer

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal principle in healthcare, meaning a patient must voluntarily agree to a medical treatment or procedure after receiving comprehensive information about it. This includes understanding the nature of the treatment, its potential benefits, risks, alternatives, and the consequences of refusing. It ensures patient autonomy and shared decision-making.

Question 2

What does DNR stand for?

Accepted Answer

Do Not Resuscitate

Answer

DNR stands for "Do Not Resuscitate," which is a medical order indicating that healthcare providers should not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient's heart stops or they stop breathing. This order reflects a patient's wish to avoid aggressive life-sustaining measures, often in the context of advanced illness, and is a crucial part of advance care planning.

Question 3

What is an ethical dilemma?

Accepted Answer

Conflicting choices

Answer

An ethical dilemma in healthcare arises when there are two or more morally justifiable courses of action, but choosing one means compromising another. These situations involve conflicting values, principles, or duties, making it difficult to determine the "right" choice. In hospice, dilemmas often involve balancing patient autonomy, family wishes, and professional obligations.

Question 4

Why respect patient autonomy?

Accepted Answer

Patient choice

Answer

Patient autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare, especially in hospice, emphasizing the patient's right to make informed decisions about their own medical care. Respecting this principle ensures that care aligns with the patient's personal values and wishes. This promotes dignity and self-determination, allowing individuals to have control over their end-of-life journey.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a living will?

Accepted Answer

Future care wishes

Answer

A living will is a legal document that allows individuals to express their preferences for medical treatment in advance, should they become unable to communicate those wishes themselves. It specifies what medical interventions they would or would not want, such as life support or artificial nutrition. This ensures their end-of-life care aligns with their personal values and reduces the burden of decision-making on family members.

(CHPN) Hospice Certified Professional Practice Test

(CHPN) Hospice Certified Professional Practice Test

CHPN Ethical & Legal Issues in End-of-Life Care