End-of-Life and Palliative Care Flashcards

What is a POLST (Provider Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form?

Answer: A medical order signed by a provider that states the patient's treatment wishes and travels with the patient

A POLST is an actionable medical order reflecting a seriously ill patient's wishes that goes with them across care settings.

A resident in the final days of life refuses food and drinks very little. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Offer small amounts of preferred foods or fluids without forcing, and report intake

Loss of appetite is normal near death; offer but never force, and report changes to the nurse.

A family asks to perform a religious ritual with the body immediately after their loved one dies. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Respect the family's wishes and check with the nurse about facility policy

Cultural and religious practices should be honored whenever possible within facility policy.

A CNA finds a hospice resident with a DNR order not breathing and without a pulse. What should the CNA do FIRST?

Answer: Notify the nurse immediately

With a valid DNR, CPR is not started; the nurse must be notified to assess and follow the pronouncement process.

Which change in body temperature and skin is common as death approaches?

Answer: Arms and legs become cool to the touch

As circulation slows, the extremities typically become cool and may look pale or bluish.

A dying resident is sweating heavily and the bed linens are damp. What is the BEST comfort measure?

Answer: Change the gown and linens and keep the skin clean and dry

Keeping skin clean and dry promotes comfort and protects skin integrity.

A resident newly diagnosed with a terminal illness tells the CNA, "The lab made a mistake. I'm not sick." Which stage of grief does this show?

Answer: Denial

Refusing to believe the diagnosis is a classic sign of denial.