Question

Define and discuss three common end of life documents that the nurse must be familiar with.

Answer 1

END OF LIFE CARE :-

Every year more than half a million people die in the United Kingdom, and most of these deaths occur in hospitals. Whilst some deaths occur suddenly, the majority of deaths occur after a period of chronic illness, with three quarters of all deaths being expected.

During this time people often require ongoing care which may include end of life care. It helps them to live as well as possible until they die, and to die with dignity.

It also includes support for their family or carers. A person is ‘approaching the end of life’ when they are likely to die within the next 12 months.

Within end of life care there are few areas that are as complex as providing nutrition and hydration to the patient.

End of life documents that the nurse must be familiar with:-

• have improved confidence in providing end of life care to an individual with a life limiting illness according to the principles of nursing practice
• have improved knowledge of how to recognise the changing needs of the person at the end of their life (and those close to them) and know how to respond to these
• have improved understanding of the need for effective communication in discussing end of life care with individuals reaching the end of life and those close to them
• have raised awareness of any ethical questions that might arise when providing support and how to address these
• have an improved understanding of the importance of listening to the patient and family’s point of view and experience of end of life care
• have improved understanding of the need to respect each individual’s cultural and spiritual beliefs in the care you deliver
• have improved understanding of the benefits of providing good, clear and straightforward information to patients and their families in regard to their end of life care
• be aware of and recognise the barriers or fear the person (and those close to them) may feel about discussing the dying process
• have improved understanding of the need to keep accurate records and document summaries of conversations
• have improved understanding of how to communicate and have open discussions with the person reaching the end of their life (and those close to them) around their needs and any decisions relating to the changes in their condition.