Category: End of Life
Articles pertaining to the last month or less of life of a terminally ill patient.
Introduction to Terminal Illness and Progressive Diseases
When a loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness or a progressive disease, it can be a daunting and overwhelming experience for families and caregivers. Understanding the terms and concepts associated with these conditions is essential to providing the best possible care and support. This article aims to clarify the complex journey of terminal illnesses and progressive diseases, offering guidance and compassion to those navigating this challenging path.
Read MoreIntroduction to Terminal Illness and Progressive DiseasesThe Final Journey: Understanding Why the Actively Dying May Linger
Explore the profound journey of the actively dying. This article unravels the reasons behind their lingering, examining medical interventions and the emotional need for closure. Gain insight into this delicate phase of life."
Read MoreThe Final Journey: Understanding Why the Actively Dying May LingerReview of Gone from My Sight by Barbara Karnes, RN
As an experienced hospice nurse with years of experience, I have come across numerous resources that aim to guide families and caregivers through the process of dying. One such resource that stands out is "Gone from my sight: The Dying Experience" by Barbara Karnes, RN. This booklet, often referred to as the "Little Blue Book," has been a staple for hospice providers for over three decades, and for good reason.
Read MoreReview of Gone from My Sight by Barbara Karnes, RNManaging Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State at End of Life: A Comfort-Based Approach
As an experienced hospice nurse, I understand that managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) at end of life can be challenging, especially when patients choose to stop taking their diabetic medications or when those medications are no longer an option. In this article, I will provide information on recognizing the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemic crises and outline comfort-based treatment options that align with hospice goals of care.
Read MoreManaging Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State at End of Life: A Comfort-Based ApproachUnderstanding Nutrition Changes in Hospice: Nourishing Comfort and Peaceful End-of-Life Journey
Explore the natural shift in nutritional needs during hospice care. This guide offers insights into managing reduced calorie intake, ensuring comfort and dignity in the end-of-life journey.
Read MoreUnderstanding Nutrition Changes in Hospice: Nourishing Comfort and Peaceful End-of-Life JourneyBest Practices for Oral Care in Hospice Patients: A Guide for Families
Caring for a comatose loved one during their hospice journey requires special attention, particularly when it comes to oral care. In this guide, we'll explore best practices for oral care, considering the unique needs of comatose patients, and provide you with valuable resources for further guidance.
Read MoreBest Practices for Oral Care in Hospice Patients: A Guide for FamiliesSupporting a Loved One’s Decision to Stop Eating and Drinking Voluntarily
When a loved one chooses VSED in hospice care, it’s a profound decision. This guide offers support for families, detailing the emotional and practical aspects of this journey towards a peaceful end-of-life transition.
Read MoreSupporting a Loved One’s Decision to Stop Eating and Drinking VoluntarilyUnderstanding Terminal Illness Progression: Observable Signs and Symptoms
Explore the journey through terminal illness, understanding key signs and symptoms at each stage. This guide offers insight into the physical and emotional changes as life nears its end, helping caregivers provide compassionate support.
Read MoreUnderstanding Terminal Illness Progression: Observable Signs and SymptomsTo Wake or Not to Wake: A Dilemma for Caregivers of Dementia Patients in the Final Stage
In the final stage of dementia, caregivers face the ethical dilemma of waking patients for feeding. This article delves into the pros and cons, offering guidance for this compassionate yet challenging decision.
Read MoreTo Wake or Not to Wake: A Dilemma for Caregivers of Dementia Patients in the Final StageUnderstanding the Patient’s Question: When Will I Die?
Navigating the tender journey of hospice care, Compassion Crossing offers guidance on addressing the pivotal question of “when?”—a beacon for caregivers seeking solace and understanding in life’s final chapter.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Patient’s Question: When Will I Die?Understanding End Stage Coma: A Guide for Families
Dealing with a loved one in end stage coma can be an emotionally challenging and overwhelming experience. As an experienced nurse with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care and support during this difficult journey. In this article, we will explore what to expect during the course of the disease, changes you might see in your loved one, and essential tips for caring for them from onset until death.
Read MoreUnderstanding End Stage Coma: A Guide for FamiliesCaring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Guide from Onset to End-of-Life
This guide is for families who have a loved one with Alzheimer's Disease. As an experienced hospice nurse with years of experience, I understand the challenges you may face on this journey. Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive condition affecting memory, cognition, and behavior, and caring for someone with this disease requires compassion, patience, and knowledge. In this article, we will explore what to expect over the course of the disease, changes you might see in your loved one, and how to provide the best care from onset until the end-of-life.
Read MoreCaring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Guide from Onset to End-of-LifeIdentifying Patients Who May Benefit from Hospice Care: A Visual Observation Guide for Personal Care Facilities
Identifying when a patient may benefit from hospice care is a critical yet often challenging task. For caregivers, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Medical Technicians (Med Techs), visual observation can be a powerful tool for recognizing signs that suggest a hospice referral might be appropriate.
This guide is tailored to assist caregivers in personal care facilities in identifying these signs through visual observation methods, helping provide compassionate and timely end-of-life care.
Read MoreIdentifying Patients Who May Benefit from Hospice Care: A Visual Observation Guide for Personal Care FacilitiesHow to Talk to Families About End-of-Life: A Guide for Hospice Nurses
This article provides hospice nurses with practical and evidence-based strategies to discuss end-of-life care with families
Read MoreHow to Talk to Families About End-of-Life: A Guide for Hospice NursesUnderstanding Changes in Palliative Performance Scale in the Last Six Months of Life
Explore the crucial insights into the Palliative Performance Scale’s downward trend in the last six months of life. This guide offers month-by-month expectations for caregivers and families navigating end-of-life care.
Read MoreUnderstanding Changes in Palliative Performance Scale in the Last Six Months of Life