Common signs of approaching death include:
*blurred and failing vision
*unfocused eyes
*impaired speech
*diminished sense of touch
*loss of movement, muscle tone, and feeling
*rising or below-normal body temperature
*decreasing blood pressure
*weak pulse that is abnormally slow or rapid
*slow, irregular respirations or rapid, shallow respirations, called Cheyne-Stokes respirations
*a "rattling" or "gurgling" sound as the person breathes
*cold, pale skin
*mottling, spotting, or blotching of skin caused by poor circulation
*perspiration
*incontinence (both urine and stool)
*disorientation or confusion
Some guidelines to follow:
-keep room lighting low to reduce glare
-give mouth care often
-keep sheets wrinkle-free
-reposition resident often
-spend time and listen
-do not babble or be especially cheerful or sad
-be professional
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