Discuss nursing care for a patient at the end of their life. This may be a time when the patient might receive assistance (or their support system) with decisions related to end of life care.What are observations related to this experience?

The task of caring for patients at the end-of-life is a sensitive one. Nurses should provide compassionate, supportive care to their patients at this stage. Not only should nurses provide physical care, like monitoring vitals or giving medications, but they also need to offer emotional comfort by offering words of encouragement and listening. Everyone deals with grief in a different way, so it is important to allow people the freedom to express themselves.

Sometimes, nurses may ask patients to make decisions about end-of-life care. It is important to be respectful of the autonomy and wishes of each individual, while providing them with all necessary information so they can make an informed decision. Nurses also serve as a resource system, ensuring that all participants have the resources they need. This is a rewarding experience for all involved, but it can be a difficult one.