End-of-Life University

Learn some simple steps to honor the sacredness of the moments before and after death.

My favorite guest Barbara Karnes, RN is back for another episode where we talk about issues in hospice care. Barbara is an internationally recognized speaker and expert on end-of-life care. She is author of the popular booklet Gone from My Sight and By Your Side: A Guide for Caring for the Dying at Home, among others. Today Barbara shares some fantastic tips for how to help a family create a sacred space for the moment of their loved one’s death and just after. We discuss what hospice providers, death doulas, or family members can do to enhance meaning and reverence as the last breath is taken. These simple reminders are important to make sure that we don’t overlook this brief moment-in-time that is filled with so much significance and grace. Learn more about Barbara’s work at her website:

www.bkbooks.com

Get By Your Side here

Watch on YouTube

Listen here:

This episode includes:

• What to do in the hours before a death
• How to be a “conductor” for this final moment of life
• Why each family member should be encouraged to say a private goodbye
• How to prepare the body immediately after death
• How to arrange the room immediately after a death
• When to call the funeral home
• What to do after the body is removed
• How to talk about the benefits of having a visitation
• How to help family members, including children, write letters or draw pictures to leave with loved one at the funeral
• How to create sacred space in a hospital room or ICU

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Previous episodes with Barbara Karnes: Episode 354, Episode 369
• Video: How to Pack a “Ready to Go” Bag for EOL Emergencies
• Download the “Ready to Go” Packing List here
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