Understand how to support individuals during the last days of life

Learning Outcome

1. Understand common features of support during the last days of life

1.1 Describe the common signs of approaching death

1.2 Define the circumstances when life-prolonging treatment can be stopped or withheld

1.3 Analyse the importance of any advance care plan in the last days of life

1.4 Identify the signs that death has occurred

2. Understand the impact of the last days of life on the individual and others

2.1 Describe the possible psychological aspects of the dying phase for the individual and others

2.2 Explain the impact of the last days of life on the relationships between individuals and others

2.3 Outline possible changing needs of the individual during the last days of life

3. Know how to support individuals and others during the last days of life

3.1 Describe a range of ways to enhance an individual’s wellbeing during the last days of life

3.2 Explain the importance of working in partnership with key people to support the individual’s wellbeing during the last days of life

3.3 Describe how to use an integrated care pathway according to agreed ways of working

4. Understand the actions to be taken following an individual’s death

4.1 Explain national guidelines, local policies and procedures relating to care after death

4.2 Explain the importance of being knowledgeable about an individual’s wishes for their after-death care

4.3 Explain the importance of acting in ways that respect the individual’s wishes immediately after death

4.4 Describe agreed ways of working relating to prevention and control of infection when caring for and transferring a deceased person

4.5 Describe ways to support others immediately following the death of a close relative or friend

5. Know how to manage own feelings in relation to an individual’s dying or death

5.1 Define possible impact of an individual’s death on own feelings

5.2 Identify available support systems to manage own feelings in relation to an individual’s death