Just as everyone's life is different, their end-of-life experiences can vary equally. Still, a few common indicators indicate a patient's passing is imminent. At Medi-Plex Hospice, our desire is for all our patients' families and friends to be fully prepared for their loved one's final transition by knowing the signs in advance. Please call our team in St. Louis, MO, to inquire about hospice care for yourself or a loved one.
BREATHING DIFFICULTIES
Patients may go for a long period of time without breathing, then suddenly take many quick breaths in a row. This is known as:
Whatever you call it, it can be disconcerting for family members to witness, not to mention frightening for the patient. In these cases, supplemental oxygen may be administered. Morphine can also alleviate breathing problems by relaxing the patient.
DROP IN BODY TEMPERATURE OR BLOOD PRESSURE
Body temperature and blood pressure typically decrease as the patient gets closer to passing. You may notice your loved one's skin turning pale, bluish, or spotty.
Some people may experience hot and cold chills. Soft blankets (not heated blankets), cold compresses, and other measures may be used to regulate the patient's temperature.
LOSS OF APPETITE OR THIRST
As the body prepares for its final moments, the desire to eat and drink abates. If this happens to your loved one, do not try to make them eat.
If they express hunger, softened versions of foods they like may be given in small portions, along with ice chips to keep the lips and mouth moist.
SLEEP DISRUPTIONS
In your loved one's final days, they may sleep a lot more than they used to. This is a normal end-of-life indicator, resulting from less energy and eating less. Letting your loved one sleep is the best course of action.
On the opposite end, restlessness, agitation, or repetitive facial or tactile motions are also common. Anti-anxiety medications or sleep aids may be administered in these situations.
ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Hallucination and confusion are frequently exhibited by people in their final hours. In contrast, your loved one may appear to lapse into a coma.
Even if they appear unresponsive, talking to the patient, playing their favorite music, dimming the lights, and lighting soft candles may calm the patient and ease their passing.
FINAL ARRANGEMENTS
If your loved one experiences one or more of these common end-of-life signs, this is the appropriate time to notify your Medi-plex Hospice team about:
- Need for spiritual support or guidance
- Concerns that may require assistance from a social worker, chaplain, priest, or other member of the clergy
- Cultural or ethnic traditions important to your family
- Information about the funeral home and other arrangements, such as organ donation
A LAST HURRAH
Strange as it may seem, many hospice patients experience an unexpected surge of energy or lucidity before death. They exhibit behaviors such as:
- Engaging in conversation
- Responding to questions attentively and correctly
- Requesting their favorite meal
These 11th-hour "rallies" usually don't last long and give family and friends the false hope that their loved one may survive and get to go home. Instead, take this opportunity to listen to or talk with them. Share as many stories and laughs as you can. This may be your last chance to do so.
1470 S Vandeventer Ave Ste B Saint Louis, MO 63110-2336
Mon - Fri 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Sat - Sun Closed
Nursing: 24/7