The Caregiving Needs Assessment Scale (CNAS) is a tool designed to assist hospice and palliative care teams in assessing the caregiving needs of patients who are either living alone or with limited caregiving support. It incorporates two widely used instruments, the MAHC 10 – Fall Risk Assessment Tool, and the Palliative Performance Scale, Version 2, both of which are readily available online. Upon completion, the CNAS generates a total score ranging from 0 to 25, with corresponding caregiving recommendations provided. It has undergone preliminary field testing within Mercy Hospice and is demonstrating very promising results. Hospice and palliative care programs are welcome to utilize this tool. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Palmer, LCSW, FT, BCD, at (916) 281-3913, or bill.palmer@dignityhealth.org.
