A dying patient

Mr KB was a very pleasant man. Diagnosed of advanced lung cancer few months back, but never gave up on hope nor himself.

I was asked to see him 2 days before his demise. He was breathless, but in my opinion no worse than usual. His daughter asked if Mr B could be placed in a single room, instead in his current 6-bedded room. They would like a bit more privacy, she pleaded.

I told her this was not possible, because the room was occupied by a patient troubled by D+V. In actual fact, this patient had not have any more D+V for at least 48hrs (ie not contagious anymore). This would mean, in theory, their beds could be easily swapped. I turned down their request for a single room, partly because I didn't think Mr B was terminally ill, but mainly because I thought it would be too much of a trouble for the nursing staff to swap patients all over the ward.

Mr B then went downhill rather rapidly and unexpectedly. Later that night (after I went off duty), he was moved into the sideroom. I saw him again 2 days later, at this point, he appeared moribund and was really struggling for his breaths.

I asked him if he would like to have a small dose of morphine to keep him calm and comfy. He duly accepted my offer. 2 hours later, he passed away peacefully in the presence of his entire family.

I'm glad I managed to provide him some comfort shortly before his death. But I can't forgive myself for turning down their request for some privacy during Mr B's final days, on the basis of 'not wanting to trouble the nurses'.

Afterall, that's what we, as the healthcare providers, are paid to do.

R.I.P, Mr B.