Why should staff continue to speak respectfully and explain actions when caring for a resident who appears unresponsive near death?

• A.The resident can be tested to see if responses will return
• B.Family members are never present to hear how staff speak
• C.Hearing may be one of the last senses to fade, and respectful communication preserves dignity
• D.It is only needed if the resident opens the eyes again

Why

Because hearing may persist near the end of life, staff should speak as if the resident can hear and maintain dignity in all care. Treating an unresponsive resident as unaware risks disrespectful care.

Content outline: Psychosocial Care Skills - Care of the Dying Resident: Death and Postmortem Care · From the Psychosocial Care Skills practice bank (PS-079).

Practice this domain as a full test

More Death, Dying & Postmortem Care questions

• A dying resident says, 'The tests must be wrong. I feel fine and I will be home next week.' In Kübler-Ross terms, this statement most reflects:
• A resident near the end of life snaps at staff and family over small matters and says, 'Why is this happening to me?' This behavior may reflect which stage of grief?
• A dying resident says, 'If I can live until my granddaughter graduates, I promise I will never complain again.' This is an example of:
• In the weeks before death, a resident becomes quiet, sleeps more, cries at times, and shows little interest in visits. This may reflect:
• A resident who is dying speaks calmly about wanting his affairs in order and says goodbye to family without distress. This most suggests: