A Good Death

Question 1

Achieving a good death challenges

Answer 1

Truthfulness

Informed consent

Prepare

Avoid Isolation

Overcoming wall of silence

Maintaining hope by accompanying them on the journey

Question 2

Anticipatory grief - psychological stages of dying

Answer 2

Anger
Denial
Bargaining
Depression

Overall alternation in life dynamic,s coping with potential loss, changes in role and image

Acceptance (or resignation?)

Question 3

What is the BMJ criteria for ‘good dying’?

Answer 3

Avoiding medicalisation and thus prolongation of dying process

Avoid medical captivity of being a frightened patient, enable their release

Agreed care plan avoid managed states

Ability to die one’s own death

Adequate symptom control

Question 4

Principles of good death?

Answer 4

Warned when death is coming and what to expect

Able retain control

Afforded dignity and privacy

Control over pain relief and other symptom control

Choice and control over where death occurs

Access info and expertise of whatever kind necessary

Access hospice care

Control over who is present

Time say goodbye and control timing

Be able to leave when time to go