Coma

When a person reaches the final stages of the dying process, he or she may become unconscious or slip into a coma. Not all people who are dying do go into a coma, but it does happen to very many. 

Responding to Pain 

At this point, your loved one may respond a little bit, moaning when turned, perhaps, grimacing, or twitching. The medical community doesn't know if someone in this state can understand if you're their or not. Many nurses will recommend that you speak to your loved one and act as if he or she is aware of your presence, because we don't know for sure. 

Completely Unresponsive 

Other people are completely unresponsive, no moaning, no facial expressions, nothing. Again, it isn't known if the person knows what is going on around them. 

Pain 

People who are in a coma still often receive pain medications, especially if they moan when they are being cared for. There should be no suffering, even if they can't tell you that they are in pain. 

Comfort Measures 

At this point, the care for your loved one involves comfort measures only. That is: 

• Medication for pain as needed 
• Turning and positioning in the bed 
• Moistening the mouth with a swab, cleaning the inside of the mouth 
• Skin care, bathing, cream 
• Cleaning if there is urine or bowel movement