• The patient’s/client’s eyes may stare blankly, and the pupils become fixed and dilated. Patient/Client Needs The following are some special concerns in caring for the dying: • Following plans developed for meeting the needs of the patient/client and family. • Providing personal care, physical care, and comfort are a continuing need. • Maintaining strength through exercise and nutrition. • Maintaining routines, yet staying flexible, allowing the patient/client to decide when certain care should be given. • Modifying procedures to allow for comfort. • Explaining what is being done even if the patient/client does not seem to respond. • Listening attentively. • Protecting the patient’s/client’s privacy and independence. • Demonstrating real concern, acceptance, and understanding in helping to meet the psychological and emotional needs of the patient/client and family. • Encouraging family members to talk with patients/clients and with each other about what they are feeling. Sensory Needs • The room should be well lit with indirect lighting. Avoid bright lights and glare. • Ask questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no”. Continue to talk to the patient/client even when they cannot verbally respond. • Hearing is one of the last functions lost. Even if the patient/client is not conscious, they may be able to hear. Continue to talk to the patient/client as care is provided and encourage the family to do the same. • Use touch as a comfort measure if the patient/client wishes to be touched. Oral Hygiene • Use the appropriate mouth swabs, moistened with water, to prevent mouth irritation and to make swallowing easier. • Report the following to the supervisor: o Excessive mucous in the mouth. o Inability to swallow.
