End-of-Life and Palliative Care Flashcards

A terminally ill resident says, "If I can just make it to my grandson's wedding, I'll be ready to go." Which stage of grief is this resident expressing?

Answer: Bargaining

Bargaining involves trying to make a deal to postpone death until a certain event.

How does palliative care differ from hospice care?

Answer: Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, even alongside curative treatment

Palliative care focuses on comfort and symptom relief and can be given together with treatment aimed at cure.

A resident has a valid Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order. What does this mean for the CNA's care?

Answer: CPR will not be started if breathing or heartbeat stops, but all other care continues

A DNR order only withholds CPR; the resident still receives full comfort and daily care.

A dying resident has a loud, gurgling sound with each breath. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Turn the resident onto the side, elevate the head if allowed, and report to the nurse

Repositioning helps drain secretions that cause the 'death rattle,' and the nurse should be informed.

A resident asks the CNA for help writing a living will. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Report the request to the nurse or social worker

Advance directives are legal documents outside the CNA's scope, so the request should be referred to the appropriate staff.

A dying resident cannot speak. Which behavior would MOST suggest the resident is in pain?

Answer: Grimacing, moaning, and restlessness

Nonverbal signs such as facial grimacing, moaning, and restlessness often indicate pain and should be reported.

About how soon after death does rigor mortis usually begin?

Answer: About 2 to 6 hours after death

Rigor mortis typically begins within 2 to 6 hours, so postmortem positioning should be done promptly.