The last few days

In the dying patient, coma is preceded by either progressive sedation or the development of the organic brain syndrome of delirium. More than one-third of dying patients experience some difficulties during the last 48 hours of life with noisy and moist breathing, pain, and agitation and restlessness...

Full description

Saved in:

Bibliographic Details
Published in:	American journal of hospice & palliative medicine Vol. 9; no. 4; p. 11
Main Author:	Enck, R E
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	United States 01-07-1992
Subjects:	Aged Aged, 80 and over Female Humans Lorazepam - therapeutic use Male Midazolam - therapeutic use Middle Aged Neoplasms - physiopathology Terminal Care - methods
Online Access:	Get more information
Tags:	Add Tag No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!

Description
Summary:	In the dying patient, coma is preceded by either progressive sedation or the development of the organic brain syndrome of delirium. More than one-third of dying patients experience some difficulties during the last 48 hours of life with noisy and moist breathing, pain, and agitation and restlessness the most common. The great majority of these terminal symptoms can be managed by reassurance or drug intervention. Sublingual lorazepam and continuous subcutaneous infusion of midazolam can be effective in controlling terminal restlessness.
ISSN:	1049-9091
DOI:	10.1177/104990919200900403