CARE OF THE DYING

A. Physical Care
Provide comfort measures including:
a. Good mouth care
b. Skin care
c. Artificial tears if eyes are dry
d. Suctioning if needed to ease breathing
e. Adequate hydration
f. Frequent position changes to keep patient comfortable
g. Clean linens and gown
h. Maintain adequate pain management

B. Spiritual/Cultural Care
1. Provide support to family and patient
2. Continue to observe any religious customs
3. Help to open communication with the patient and family
4. Allow family time alone with the patient if desired
5. Be honest with the family, and keep them informed of the patient’s status

C. After Death (must be after a physician pronounces patient dead)

1. Position body in natural position—place a pillow under the head and close eyes
2. Place dentures in the mouth as soon as possible and close mouth
3. Clean body and remove all IV’s, tubing, dressings, etc.
4. Allow family time alone with the patient after completing the preparations above
5. Wrap body in shroud and label with tags according to agency policy
6. Gather and label patient’s belongings
7. Record observations, procedures, disposition of valuables, and time of death