Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Under Medicare hospice benefits, patients are entitled to which of the following?

1. Skilled nursing services on an intermittent basis

2. Nurse's aides at a maximum of 2-3 one hour visits per week

3. 20% deductible for durable medical equipment

4. Limited respite (5 consecutive days per quarter) in an extended care facility

The correct answer is: Limited respite (5 consecutive days per quarter) in an extended care facility

Medicare hospice benefits are designed to provide comprehensive care to patients with terminal illnesses who have chosen to forgo curative treatment in favor of comfort and quality of life. Under these benefits, one of the key components is respite care. Patients are indeed entitled to respite care, which allows them to receive care in an extended care facility for a short period of time. This provision enables the primary caregivers to take a break while ensuring that the patient continues to receive necessary support and medical attention. Specifically, under Medicare guidelines, this respite care can be provided for up to five consecutive days, with patients allowed access to this benefit up to a maximum of 5 days per quarter. This approach is crucial as it addresses caregiver fatigue and helps sustain the quality of care for individuals in hospice. While skilled nursing services, nurse aide visits, and durable medical equipment are also covered under the hospice benefit, these do not specifically encompass the provisions that directly support respite care, which is unique in helping alleviate the pressure on family caregivers. Understanding these specific guidelines around respite care is essential for anyone involved in clinical practice or nursing care regarding end-of-life options.