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Recognising the last weeks and days of life

In this 4 minute video Dr Ros Taylor explains how to recognise the physical, emotional, social and spiritual signs that the last weeks of life may be approaching. This includes:

  • Early signs that someone may be in their final weeks
  • Using lucid days for important conversations 
  • Physical changes: circulation, sleep and breathing
  • Managing comfort and medication when swallowing is difficult
  • Appetite, hydration and reassurance for families
  • Being present: sound, touch and companionship
  • Recognising the final days of life

For more information on the final days of life please see What to expect when someone close to you is in their final days.

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Palliative care advice lines

NCL Palliative Advice Team
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NCL Palliative Advice Team

T. 020 8152 3252

W. https://northlondonhospice.org/get-support/out-of-hours-telephone-advice

The North Central London Palliative Advice Team is a telephone service providing palliative care patients, families, carers, and healthcare professionals (in NCL ICS boroughs) with out of hours advice and support.

The telephone service is available 8.00pm to 8.00am, seven days a week.

Community palliative care teams

Palliative Care team - Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals
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Palliative Care team - Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals

T. 020 8216 4446

W. https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/services/palliative-care

The palliative care team is multidisciplinary and works across Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital to provide:

  • advice and support on symptom control related to pain, nausea and vomiting, breathlessness, and fatigue
  • psychological support 
  • support and advice on social and financial issues
  • advanced care planning
  • discharge planning
  • end-of-life care
  • bereavement support

The palliative care team is available every day from 9.00am to 5.00pm.

Weekends and bank holidays, 9am to 5pm: call the main switchboard on 020 8216 6400 and ask for bleep 2127.

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24th October 2024

What to expect when someone close to you is in their final days

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