Petrified when handling residents that expire...

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I have a huge phobia when it comes to dealing with residents that expire. To be honest when ever I see an expired resident my pulse goes up , I tremble, and the image of their body stays in my mind. Whenever I suspect a resident on hospice has passed I always call an aide in the room when doing postmortum care. However, there was one resident that looked so scary when he passed that I couldn't even touch him. I feel like a terrible nurse and can't wait to get out of geriatrics. I know as a nurse I must see patients die but some of them look so scary and I can't sleep at night. Please help me, get over this phobia.

Specializes in medical.

I think you will become used to dead patients eventually. I have worked in hospice for several years and I have found if you use a little KY jelly around the eyes it will keep the eyes closed.:nurse:

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Specializes in med-surg, psych, ER, school nurse-CRNP.

Grey, bite your tongue! You'll give her a complex! She's got enough going on without the low drama. I agree, classic, but not cool.

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re: Petrified when handling residents that expire

I am so sorry you have had bad experiences with end of life care. To me the experiences I have had were beautiful. I found that sometimes the facial expressions can be gruesome at times, but I try to think about the last time the resident smiled at me or said "Thank You Honey". I also try to keep in mind that I am providing a service for that resident that will help their family also. Maybe after a few more times you will be able to overcome your fears. It took me awhile but after 42 yrs working with geriatrics I consider it a priviledge. Good luck to you. You can do it!

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Specializes in Clinicals in Med-Surg., OB, CCU, ICU.

This phobia is no different than others. It can be dealt with overtime.

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