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

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St Joseph's Hospice
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W. https://www.stjh.org.uk/

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Please contact the team between Monday to Sunday 9.00am to 5.00pm and Monday to Sunday 5.00pm to 8.00pm call the switchboard on 020 3456 7890 and ask for air-call palliative care team.

St John's Hospice Inpatient unit
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T. 020 7806 4040 / 07725 258767

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Referral form for clinician use only.

Community Specialist Palliative Care Referral Form V4.2 (DOCX)
St Joseph's Hospice
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T. 0300 30 30 400

W. https://www.stjh.org.uk/

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24th October 2024

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

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