Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of palliative care for a dying resident?

1. To provide aggressive physical treatment

2. To ensure a peaceful and comfortable end-of-life experience

3. To focus on curing the illness

4. To facilitate hospital transfers

The correct answer is: To ensure a peaceful and comfortable end-of-life experience

The primary goal of palliative care for a dying resident is to ensure a peaceful and comfortable end-of-life experience. Palliative care is centered on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress that may accompany serious illness, rather than focusing solely on curative treatments. It aims to enhance the quality of life for both the patient and their family, allowing for dignity and comfort in the final stages of life. This approach encompasses not only physical care but also emotional and spiritual support, ensuring that the individual’s needs and preferences are prioritized. In contrast, aggressive physical treatment would typically involve more invasive procedures aimed at prolonging life, which is not in line with the goals of palliative care. Focusing on curing the illness aligns with more aggressive medical treatments that are often not suitable or desired for someone in the dying process. Facilitating hospital transfers could be necessary in some cases, but the overarching intent of palliative care is to provide comfort and support rather than ensure transitions between medical facilities. Thus, prioritizing the resident's comfort and peace during their final moments is the essence of palliative care.