end of life

Question 1

stages of grief

Answer 1

1. denial
2. anger
3. bargaining
4. depression
5. acceptance

Question 2

palliative care

Answer 2

focus on quality of life
management of symptoms, psychosocial care, spiritual support

Question 3

hospice care

Answer 3

6 months or less to live
serious progressive illness

Question 4

respiratory findings at EOL

Answer 4

cheyne stokes breathing
inability to cough or clear secretions
death rattle (grunting gurgling noisy congested breathing)

Question 5

sensory system at EOL

Answer 5

hearing is last sense to go
decreased sensation to hot and cold
decreased sensation to pain and touch
blurring of vision
blink reflex absent
patient appears to stare
eyelids remain half open
decrease taste and smell

Question 6

integumentary system

Answer 6

mottling on hands, feet, arms, and legs
cold clammy skin
cyanosis of nose, nail beds, knees
wax like skin near death

Question 7

urinary system s&s

Answer 7

gradual decrease in urinary output
incontinence of urine
unable to urinate

Question 8

GI symptoms S&S

Answer 8

slowing of digestive tract and possible cessation of function
accumulation of gas
distension and nausea
loss of sphincter control
bowel movement may occur before imminent death or at the time of death

Question 9

musculoskeletal system

Answer 9

gradual loss of ability to move
trouble holding body pressure and alignment
loss of facial muscle tone
sagging of jaw
difficulty speaking
loss of gag reflex
swallowing can become more difficult

Question 10

cardiovascular system

Answer 10

increased heart rate
later slowing and weakening of pulse
irregular rhythm
decreased blood pressure
delayed absorption of IM or SQ drugs