When Death is Near
 Even though it is a difficult subject to discuss, you may have questions about what happens when death is imminent. Many of our patients and family members ask us what to expect. The following is a list of things that you or your loved one may experience as the time grows closer. Please ask your nurse if you have any other questions. We want you to know as much as possible during this difficult time.
Our patients’ loved ones understandably grow more concerned and nervous as their family member gets closer to the end of his or her life. Please talk to a social worker, chaplain, counselor or nurse if you need some support.
It is not uncommon for symptoms to become worse for a while and then get better. We can only watch, keep the patient comfortable and prepare for death when it comes. We will do our best to keep you informed.
If you have any questions about changes in condition, please feel free to ask your nurse.
Although we can’t always tell when death is near we will try to let the family know in enough time to say their good-byes.
Signs and Symptoms when Death is Near
We notice that some of the following may occur as our patients get nearer to death. However, there is never a way to tell exactly when death is coming.
- Blood pressure, pulse and breathing change and grow weaker.
- Patient is not as alert.
- The skin may show uneven color in arms and legs (mottling).
- Lungs may begin to have more fluid in them and breathing gets harder.
When death occurs the following signs will show that the body has stopped working.
- Breathing stops as the final breath is let out.
- The heart stops beating.
- We are unable to arouse or get a response from the person.
- The muscles of the mouth and jaw relax and the mouth may fall open. There may be fluid or blood coming from the mouth.
- The bowel and bladder may relax and if there is any waste in the body, it may be released.
How We Help When Death Occurs
If and when one of our patients dies we will try to make it as easy for the family as possible. Although we cannot take away the sadness or other emotions, we can help with the things that need to be done so that you can be with family and friends at this difficult time.
For those who are in our facility, we will call the family if they are not already here. For those in our home hospice, if they have not already called us, the family will call their nurse on call to let them know that their loved one has died.
The hospice staff will call the doctor and mortuary. We will encourage you to already have a mortuary chosen so that this decision does not need to be made at this difficult time.
Our pastoral, social service and nursing staff are available for your emotional support during these difficult moments.
We ask that family members pick up personal items at the time of death. A nurse will help with this. If this is not possible, please call the nurses station to arrange for pickup. We cannot hold personal items for a lengthy period of time.
|