How to recognise the dying phase in palliative and end-of-life care
08/23/24 at 03:00 AM
How to recognise the dying phase in palliative and end-of-life care
Nursing Times; by Julie Kinley and Cathriona Sullivan; 8/19/24
This article gives practical guidance for nurses on providing care in the last days of life. ... Birth and death are two certainties in life. Consequently, during their career, many nurses will support, and indeed lead, the management of the care of dying people. ... [Knowing] how to recognise – and manage – this phase of life remains a career-long key responsibility and role. ... In any setting, nurses are part of a wider team. The recognition of dying and the dying phase can be enhanced if everyone:
- Uses the same language;
- Delivers a consistent message, which involves:
- Understanding the challenge;
- Knowing the organisational approach and resources where they work;
- Having an awareness of tools and measures that may be useful in practice;
- Is alert for signs and symptoms;
- Understands symptom control;
- Makes use of additional resources.