Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

In both hospice and palliative care, who is considered the unit of care?

1. Just the patient

2. The healthcare providers

3. The patient and family

4. Only the family members

The correct answer is: The patient and family

In hospice and palliative care, the unit of care is considered to be the patient and family. This approach recognizes that both the patient’s needs and the family’s needs are intertwined and critical to the overall care experience. When caring for individuals with serious illnesses, it's essential to address not only the physical symptoms of the patient but also the emotional, social, and spiritual challenges that affect the family unit. Family members often provide significant support, are involved in decision-making, and may require education and resources to cope with the patient's illness and their own emotional response to it. Therefore, involving both the patient and the family in the care plan enhances the effectiveness of the support provided, ensuring a more holistic approach to their well-being. The concept of treating the patient and family as a unit of care reflects the interdisciplinary nature of hospice and palliative care, where various healthcare providers work together to cater to the needs of both parties, facilitating communication and coordination of care. This is fundamental to improving the quality of life for both the patient and their family during challenging times.