Stages of Grief
anger
last sense that is usually lost
hearing
When is a person eligible for hospice care?
When they have a terminal illness with less than 6 months to live.
True or False: You do not have to follow standard precautions when providing postmortem care.
False.
Alternating pattern of dyspnea & apnea that often proceeds death.
Cheyne-Stokes respirations
depression
purplish, lace-like pattern of skin discoloration that occurs near death
motteling
T or F: Hospice patients have the right to refuse treatments that would prolong their life.
True
When is postmortem care begun?
As soon as death is pronounced
When does rigor mortis usually set in?
2 - 4 hours after death
The terminal patient is unable to believe it is happening to them.
T or F: As one approaches death, GI peristalsis increases leading to diarrhea.
False
What type of care does hospice provide?
palliative care
The examination of the person's organs and tissues after they have died.
What is autopsy?
What happens to the pupils after death?
Pupils become dilated and fixed.
Bargaining
As death approaches, what happens to body temperature?
It rises
What is the philosophy of hospice care?
To allow the person to die in comfort and with dignity.
What should be done to prevent pooling of blood in the deceased's face?
elevate HOB to 30 degrees
Name at least 2 things the healthcare worker can do to support the dying person's family.
allow them to be present, make them comfortable, provide privacy, be available to them for support, arrange for clergy to visit if requested
Person is at peace with fact that they will die.
acceptance
As death approaches, BP _____ and Pulse _____.
BP decreases, P increases
Name at least 4 services provided by hospice.
hospital equipment, counseling services, respite care for the family, ADLs, personal care, pain management
On what part of the deceased's body should the identification tag be applied to?
right big toe or right ankle
Laymen's term that describes a gurgling sound in the back of the throat when fluid accumulates.
What is "death rattle"?