RCN guidance on end of life care

The RCN has created guidance for nurses and healthcare assistants who provide palliative care to terminally ill patients. Based on the responses to the RCN's End of Life Care Survey, the report contains educational materials and examples of best practice for nurses delivering palliative care. It also contains a review of evidence relating to the management of hydration and nutrition for patients reaching the end of their life. The guidance also recommends that nurses providing palliative care be aware of the spiritual and cultural views of the person they are caring for, as this can significantly improve their experience of care in the final stage of their life. Other sections of the guidance feature information on topics such as bladder and bowel care, physical handling, and making sure that those receiving care are kept in clean and hygienic conditions.
www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/629858/End-of-Life_RCN.pdf