Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

What is the most important aspect to assess in a patient experiencing dyspnea?

1. Patient's blood pressure

2. Patient's level of distress

3. Patient's oxygen saturation

4. Patient's age

The correct answer is: Patient's level of distress

When assessing a patient experiencing dyspnea, the most important aspect to evaluate is the patient’s level of distress. This assessment focuses on the subjective experience of the patient, recognizing that dyspnea can significantly impact an individual's emotional and physical well-being. Understanding the severity of the patient’s distress helps guide appropriate interventions to alleviate discomfort, improve the quality of life, and provide necessary support. While other factors, such as oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and age, can provide important clinical information, they do not capture the full extent of the patient’s experience with dyspnea. For instance, a patient may have normal oxygen saturation levels and stable blood pressure but still report significant distress and anxiety due to their breathing difficulties. Therefore, assessing the patient’s level of distress is critical for effective palliative care, as it prioritizes the patient's subjective experience and needs.