Spiritual, cultural and faith needs
Your relative or friend and you will be given the opportunity to discuss what is important to you all at this time regarding wishes, feelings, faith, beliefs and values.
If needed, there is support available from a chaplain or religious advisor now and when your relative or friend dies.
Comfort
At this time, the comfort of your relative or friend is of the highest importance. The nurses and doctors will provide comfort measures with minimum disturbance to your relative or friend.
Please let us know if you feel any of their needs are not being met.
You remain an important part of your relative or friend’s care, and your continued involvement is welcomed.
Reduced need for food and drink
Loss of interest in, and reduced need for food and drink is part of the normal dying process. When a person stops eating and drinking, it can be hard to accept even when we know they are dying. Your relative or friend will be supported to eat and drink for as long as they want.
Symptoms of thirst or a dry mouth usually do not indicate dehydration but are often due to medication or breathing through the mouth. Mouth care is very important at this time. If you would like to share this care, the nurses can explain to you how mouth care is given.
If your relative or friend cannot take fluids by mouth, very occasionally and in certain circumstances, fluids may be given by a drip. However, this will only be used where it is helpful and not harmful. This decision will be explained to them, if possible, and to you.
Contact Details
St. Bede's Palliative Care Unit
St Bedes Palliative Care Unit
Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Queen Elizabeth Avenue
Gateshead
NE9 6SX
