Your web browser is outdated and may be insecure

The RCN recommends using an updated browser such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome

Compassionate Care Around Dying; The key principles of support

Welcome to this bitesize online learning resource

We’re currently reviewing this course to ensure it provides the best possible learning experience. During this time, it will be temporarily unavailable.

Thank you for your patience—we’ll have it back online soon! If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact onlinelearning@rcn.org.uk.

This course offers information and key learning resources to support you in providing compassionate care around dying to individuals and their families. 

You will be provided with a set of flexible and accessible learning resources designed to support ongoing reflection, learning, and professional development 

Furthermore, this programme recognises the demands on healthcare workers when delivering care around dying and addresses self-care mechanisms and coping strategies to support your own well-being.

User feedback

"I really loved the fact that it was so short and easy to assimilate. It has improved my knowledge in working with the end of life unit. "

"I had very little knowledge about the topic and about how to behave with the dying person and their family. ..and this bitesize learning course definitely provided me with that. A very well structured course with a lot of tips from personal and professional experiences."

"The podcasts in particular were very informative and a brilliant way to share learning material."

"I found this course incredibly helpful for providing end of life care to my patients."

What Will You Learn: 

This concise module offers essential knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and effective care for individuals nearing the end of their lives. You will explore fundamental principles that guide dignified end-of-life care, focusing on the needs of the dying person, their loved ones, and caregivers. 

1. Identifying Imminent Death: 

  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms that indicate a person is nearing the end of their life. 

2. Compassionate Communication: 

  •  Engaging in sensitive and empathetic conversations with the dying person and their loved ones. 
  • Providing emotional support throughout the dying process and after. 

3. Empowering Decision-Making: 

  • Involving the dying person and their family in critical decisions regarding end-of-life care. 
  • Respecting their wishes and preferences. 

4. Holistic Support: 

  • Addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the dying person, their family, and caregivers. 
  • Providing resources and assistance as required. 

5. Personalised Care Plans: 

  •  Developing individualized care plans tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each dying person. 
  • Delivering care with compassion, empathy, and respect. 

6. Self-Care: 

  • Equip you with comprehensive resources to promote your own health and well-being.  
  • You'll learn to identify self-care strategies and coping mechanisms to support your personal welfare 

The RCN value your feedback on our resources and would appreciate you filling in the short evaluation form at the end of the course. This will enable us to add relevant practice-based content to the course and ensure updates to provide the most current evidence based educational resources.

Contact

onlinelearning@rcn.org.uk

Royal College of Nursing, 20 Cavendish Square, Room 207, London, W1G 0RN