Recognizing that a patient’s death is approaching guides treatment strategies that alleviate the patient’s symptoms and aligns with their chosen goals of care. Early recognition of the dying process also allows the patient and family to act on any remaining wishes. Regardless of the terminal diagnosis, signs and symptoms associated with imminent death often share common presentations. Clinician knowledge of these indicators is paramount to recognizing impending death and allows the interdisciplinary team to plan for nursing and social work visits in the last week of life. This module reviews
- Symptoms associated with the dying patient
- Assessment parameters and treatment options for symptoms of imminent death
- Strategies to improve interdisciplinary team care during the final days and hours of a patient's life.
A final Knowledge Assessment Quiz is required for completion.
Estimated time to complete: 45 minutes