The guideline recognises that it can be difficult to assess exactly when a dying patient will die, but recommends looking for signs and symptoms, such as increasing fatigue, loss of appetite, agitation, decreased consciousness and noisy respiratory secretions, which suggest the patient may be in the last days of life. Gathering information from the patient and family is then recommended to acknowledge current clinical signs and symptoms, establish the patient's needs (physiological, psychological, social and spiritual) and confirm particular goals and wishes. The guideline advises against investigations, unless there is a strong clinical need, and to monitor the person at least every 24 hours, making changes in the care plan as needed.
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