Long Term Care Certification Practice Test

If a spouse needs temporary care due to minor surgery, which type of care is designed to provide support for the disabled spouse?

1. Respite care

2. Skilled nursing care

3. Hospice care

4. Custodial care

The correct answer is: Respite care

Respite care is specifically designed to provide temporary relief for primary caregivers. In this scenario, where a spouse requires support during the recovery period following minor surgery, respite care allows a professional caregiver to step in and assist with daily needs, ensuring that the disabled spouse receives adequate care and attention while the primary caregiver takes a break or tends to their own needs. This type of care can vary in length and services provided, but the key element is that it is intended to offer temporary support and relief. Skilled nursing care is more intensive and focuses on medical needs, typically provided by trained nurses and often required for individuals with serious or ongoing health conditions. Hospice care is specifically for patients who are at the end of life and focuses on comfort rather than recovery. Custodial care involves assistance with daily living activities but does not necessarily include the temporary, supportive nature that respite care provides.