Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

In 2014, where was palliative care primarily delivered?

1. In nursing homes

2. In acute care settings

3. In patient homes

4. In rehabilitation centers

The correct answer is: In acute care settings

In 2014, palliative care was primarily delivered in acute care settings. This is because acute care settings, such as hospitals, are often where patients facing serious illnesses receive urgent medical attention and complex treatment decisions. Palliative care within these environments focuses on providing relief from symptoms, pain management, and support for patients and their families as they navigate difficult health challenges. While other settings like nursing homes, patient homes, and rehabilitation centers do play a role in the continuum of palliative care, the acute care setting is particularly critical as it allows for immediate intervention and coordination with various specialties involved in a patient’s care. The integration of palliative care services in hospitals exemplifies a growing recognition of the need to address not only the medical but also the emotional, social, and spiritual needs of seriously ill patients at a stage when they are often under significant stress and uncertainty.