During the final stages of an illness, the ability of a person to take the usual preparations orally may become difficult. Some medications may need to be changed from solid to liquid preparations or in the final stages where oral treatment is not possible may require intravenous medication through an injection or syringe driver. Certain medications may not be readily available at your pharmacy and may need to be ordered in advance of the prescription due date resulting in delay in receiving the treatment. Discuss with the GP the following during the final stages of an illness:
- Are all the prescribed medications still necessary or can any be stopped?
- Are there any new medications that need to be started to alleviate any pain or discomfort including agitation.
- Check with the pharmacy on who is ordering the medication and how long would it take to receive the medication. Does it need collecting or will it be delivered. Also check after death how can any surplus medication be returned to the pharmacy.
- Discuss with the GP/ McMillan nurse/ district nurse on appropriateness and plans relating to a syringe driver during the final hours to provide comfort and pain relief to the dying.
- After death inform the GP of the passing to ensure all future requests for medication can be cancelled.