Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

What role do volunteers play in hospice care according to CMS?

1. Volunteers may assist with administrative tasks

2. Volunteers are required to be part of the interdisciplinary team

3. Volunteers provide direct medical care

4. Volunteers manage patient intake

The correct answer is: Volunteers are required to be part of the interdisciplinary team

Volunteers play a critical role in hospice care by being integral members of the interdisciplinary team, as outlined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This designation highlights the importance of collaboration among various professionals and volunteers in providing holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Being part of the interdisciplinary team allows volunteers to contribute in varied ways that enhance patient care and support family needs. Their presence can provide companionship, emotional support, and practical help, which are essential in hospice settings. Volunteers may engage with patients in meaningful ways, offering comfort and alleviating feelings of loneliness, which is a crucial aspect of comprehensive hospice care. Involvement in the interdisciplinary team means that volunteers are trained and oriented within the system to ensure their activities are aligned with the goals of hospice care. While volunteers may assist with administrative tasks or provide companionship, their integration into the interdisciplinary approach ensures that they are part of a structured effort to enhance the quality of life for patients in hospice care. This structured involvement is distinct from less direct roles that might not emphasize the collaborative nature of end-of-life care.