Supporting the Patient’s Family as Death Approaches
Privacy/Dignity
Provide Privacy and Foster Dignity
Provide privacy and time with the patient. This is especially challenging when the patient is in the ICU or in a semi-private surroundings.Consider the following strategies to foster privacy and dignity:
Draw the curtains to provide a private space.
Consider discontinuing intrusive and futile monitoring (DC pulse oximetry, IV fluids, telemetry, etc.).
Write orders to allow loved ones to visit 24/7 or stay at the facility (as possible).
Use gentle questioning to identify culturally driven family preferences and rituals and to avoid cultural faux pas.
Source: VJ Periyakoil, MD and Betty Wexler, RN, CNS
