How to inform family that pt is dying?

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I am a new grad working in a resthome for four months now. I find hard to inform the family that their loved one is dying. wha't the right way and right word to say to them? Or sometimes the pt is really unwell, but im unsure wether they are dying and family will ask me questions. How to respond ?

Thanks.

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Try to be sensitive in communicating changes the family needs to be aware of, such as change in respirations or mottling. Many times these signs mean death is closer, but not always. Our hospice uses a well written booklet, "Gone from my sight" to explain symptoms seen at the time of death.

Remember kindness is the most important thing. Good luck to you!

River1951

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Specializes in PICU, NICU, L&D, Public Health, Hospice.

The correct verbage will differ from family to family. Signs and symptoms of impending death can sometimes be remarkably discrete. I agree that Gone From My Sight may provide you with some insight and will be a good booklet to give to the very families with these type of questions.

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Specializes in Med Surg, Hospice, Home Health.

"Gone from my sight" is a great booklet-it is in our admission packet.

all families are different, you may have some on board that understand, and other family members that believe "we can't just let her lay here and die...."

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

I usually start off sitting down next to the family, and saying "your (loved one) is making some changes..."; and then I explain the changes, the significance of them, and what to expect as the pt continues to decline.

Hope this helps!

Best,

Diane

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