NURS 215 FINAL EXAM STUDY GUIDE LATEST VERSION UPDATED 2024-2025 COMPLETE DOCUMENT FOR STUDY Grief, Loss, & Dying Signs of Imminent Death/Dying Process Decreased circulation: mottled skin, cold extremities, decreased BP & HR Dry mucous membranes & congestion in airways due to mucus buildup Periods of apnea Decreased level of consciousness & hallucinations Muscle weakness/relaxation & incontinence Decreased urinary output Hearing is the LAST sense to go - we maintain the sense of hearing until the very end Grief 5 stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance Denial: refusing to accept the situation Bargaining: trying to make a bargain or plea Depression is very common for individuals who are grieving Expected symptoms of grief: sleep pattern changes, nausea, headaches, poor concentration Suicidal ideations are NOT normal & should be addressed ASAP Ethical Considerations for End-of-Life Care ALL patients have the right to dignified end-of-life care Hospice care: the goal is to keep the patient as comfortable as possible Palliative care: goal is to improve comfort & quality of life Therapeutic support for family or loved ones Postmortem care: cleanse the body, remove tubes/drains, keep dentures inside the mouth, apply pads on wrists & ankles, apply ID tag to body and bag