NR 305 Week 8 Discussion

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-305: RN Health Assessment

Prof. Name

Date

Week 8 Discussion: Reflection on End-of-Life Care

Throughout my adult life, I have had numerous interactions with elderly individuals, which have helped me understand that death is an inevitable part of life. Patients nearing the end of life often face specific challenges that can impact their comfort and quality of life. One common issue is dry mouth and lips, which can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Additionally, as death approaches, many patients experience moments of distress during which they may hold their breath involuntarily. The natural aging process leads to the gradual decline of organ function, leaving families feeling helpless—especially those who lack personal experience with death or have not been closely involved with healthcare decision-making. Reflecting on my own experiences, I have observed that many final moments can be surprisingly calm and peaceful.

Patients with chronic and severe conditions, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) combined with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), may endure significant respiratory distress for days or even weeks prior to death. In such circumstances, comfort measures, including medications, oxygen therapy, and palliative interventions, are crucial. These measures not only alleviate physical suffering but also provide emotional relief to patients who have accepted their impending death.

I recall the passing of Jane, a neighbor in my hometown. Jane had a single daughter who remained by her side during her final days. During the last two days of Jane’s life, no visitors were present, which placed an emotional burden on her daughter. Following Jane’s passing, her daughter struggled profoundly with grief. Experiences like this highlight the challenge of releasing a loved one, particularly for families without spiritual or philosophical frameworks to help navigate grief. Pre-arranging end-of-life care can significantly reduce the emotional strain on families. Caregivers play a vital role in supporting families during this time, helping them make informed decisions and guiding them toward appropriate support systems and treatment options. Each patient and family’s journey is unique, underscoring the importance of comprehensive assessments by nurses to provide tailored care.

Common Challenges and Considerations in End-of-Life Care

Responses

Robin Elliott
Hello, Robin. I want to acknowledge your contributions to this week’s discussion and express my sincere condolences for your loss. Losing both parents at the same time is a profound challenge, and I empathize with the complex emotions you may have experienced, including shock, anger, guilt, and sorrow.

Colin Herndon
Greetings, Colin. Thank you for your insights. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare delivery worldwide, placing strain on resources and resulting in visitor restrictions for inpatients. I share your concerns, as many families have faced challenges in visiting loved ones in hospital settings, adding emotional strain to an already difficult time.

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2021). The essentials: Core competencies for professional nursing education.

Kaiser Family Foundation. (2020). COVID-19’s impact on health care delivery in the United States.

NR 305 Week 8 Discussion

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. (2019). Hospice care and end-of-life decisions.