end of life care flashcards

What are proper body mechanics

The coordinated use of body movements, posture, and muscles to prevent injury and promote efficiency

Why is proper body mechanics important in nursing

Prevents injury to nurse and patient, reduces fatigue, and promotes safe patient handling

What is the correct posture for lifting

Back straight, knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and lift with legs—not the back

Where should the object/patient be when lifting

Close to the body to reduce strain

What should you avoid when lifting or moving

Twisting the spine — always pivot with your feet instead

Why is a wide base of support important

Improves balance and stability

What is the role of assistive devices

Reduce strain and risk of injury (e.g., gait belts, mechanical lifts)

When should you ask for help

When the patient is heavy, immobile, or requires more than one person for safe movement

What is palliative care

Care focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life at any stage of illness

What is hospice care

end of life for patients with a life expectancy of ≤6 months who are no longer seeking curative treatment

Can palliative care be given with curative treatment

Yes

Can hospice care be given with curative treatment

No

What is the primary goal both pallative and hospice care

Comfort, dignity, and quality of life

Where is hospice care typically provided

Home, hospice centers, hospitals, or long-term care facilities

What type of support is included in hospice care

Physical, emotional, spiritual, and family support

What happens to the cardiovascular system at the end of life

Decreased BP, weak/irregular pulse, poor circulation, mottling of skin

What respiratory changes occur

Irregular breathing, Cheyne-Stokes respirations, decreased oxygenation, noisy “death rattle”

What neurological changes occur

Decreased LOC, confusion, restlessness, eventual unresponsiveness

What happens to the gastrointestinal system

Decreased appetite, difficulty swallowing, decreased bowel function

What urinary changes occur?

Decreased urine output and possible incontinence

What happens to the skin

Cool, pale, mottled, fragile

What is the primary goal at end of life

Comfort and dignity

What does “quality of life” mean

Relief from pain and distressing symptoms

Why is symptom management important

To reduce suffering (pain, dyspnea, anxiety, nausea)

What emotional needs should be addressed

Fear, anxiety, grief, and need for closure

What is the role of family in end of life care

Support system, decision making (if needed), and emotional presence

Why is communication important

Ensures patient wishes are respected (advances directives, DNR)

What is a “good death”?

One that aligns with patient wishes, is pain-free, and occurs with dignity

What is the nurse’s primary responsibility

Provide comfort, advocacy, and holistic care

How does the nurse manage pain

Administer meds, assess pain regularly, and adjust care as needed

What comfort measures can nurses provide

Repositioning, hygiene care, mouth care, oxygen, calming environment

How does the nurse support emotional needs

Active listening, presence, empathy, and reassurance

What is the nurse’s role in communication

Clarify patient wishes, educate family, and collaborate with the care team

How does the nurse support the family

Provide education, emotional support, and guidance through the dying process

What ethnical responsibilities does the nurse have

Respect autonomy, uphold dignity, follow adv directives

What is postmortem care

Care of the body after death, respecting cultural and religious practices