A terminally ill patient nearing end of life is dehydrated and complains of being thirsty. What can the nurse do to make the patient more comfortable?
1. Provide oral care every 2 hours.
2. Increase intravenous fluids.
3. Raise the head of the bed.
4. Begin enteral feedings.
Correct Answer: 1
Dehydration in the patient nearing death causes discomfort primarily from dry mouth and thirst. The patient should be given oral care at least every 2 hours, and more often if the patient is breathing through the mouth. Increasing intravenous fluids could cause peripheral and lung edema. Raising the head of the bed helps with dyspnea, not dehydration. Enteral feedings could cause discomfort and would not help with the discomfort of a dry mouth and thirst.
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