Title: Death and Dying
Course: PRN 0091 Practical Nursing I > Section: Human Growth and Development

Introduction

Death and Dying is part of the normal progression of the life cycle. In this module we will discuss the normal process of dying and how families deal with death. We will discuss the theories of grief, how to provide support for the family, living wills, advanced directives and how to provide care for the dying client. This module will also identify cultural considerations and will include postmortem care.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, students will be able to:

- Recall changes in health care related to death and dying.
- Explain the concept of loss and factors influencing lost experiences.
- Identify advanced directives and explain how these documents contribute to death with dignity.
- Differentiate between grief and bereavement.
- Describe behaviors characteristic of each of the five stages of dying.
- Identify nursing diagnoses of the person facing death and list related nursing interventions.
- Recognize the concepts of DNR, organ donations, and the dying person's Bill of Rights.
- Recall the procedure for care of the body after death.
- Identify ways the nurse can give support to the grieving family.

Reading and Resources

Please read the following pages:

Chapter 15 – Loss, Grief, and the Dying Patient pp.189 – 201

deWit, Susan C. Fundamental Concepts and Skills for Nursing

Assignments

- Complete:Reading and Resources
- Post in:Growth and Development - Death and Dying Discussion
- Exam: Growth and Development - School-age, Adult, Death and Dying