Using Morphine vs Not Using Morphine in Hospice

[@jacquelinecarboneturbert8715]

Julie my husband died 2 weeks ago and he was on hospice. He was surrounded by his family and although it was so painful for us to see him go it was nonetheless beautiful. Because of you I knew what to expect as he was actively dying and this knowledge diminished my fear for him and I was able to explain to my sons that what was happening was normal and that he was not in pain. That helped my family greatly. I want to thank you for all the education you provide. The pain and sadness I feel is immeasurable, but I knew he was not in pain and that was comforting. Once again thank you Julie you are wonderful and I look forward to reading your book.

[@tammyr3255]

So sorry for your loss. My husband died two weeks ago young57 .battle of cancer15months I kept watching these videos to help me.🙏. ❤we had hospice at home they r amazing

[@suellenspencer-eb2nv]

So sorry for your loss. From a retired hospice nurse.

[@raymilland3413]

Hey everyone who has cancer or knows someone with cancer please go over and listen to Dr. Thomas Seyfried. He has video's on KZbin. He explains what cancer needs to survive and how to block those things so the cancer is starved. Listen it is important to start doing these things before you get all the nasty chemo and radiation and the other crappy cancer treatments that don't work for most people . But even if you have done the chemo etc. you can still try to do this treatment. It won't hurt you and in fact this treatment is healing to the body and the healthy cells. God Bless.

[@jodil1209]

I'm so sorry for both of your losses. ❤

[@jacquelinecarboneturbert8715]

I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I could say something to alleviate your pain, but I know that nothing I say will do that. I am trying to remember my life with my husband and those memories are my treasure. I hope you can fine some comfort.@@tammyr3255

[@loweeization]

My dad passed in February. I have watched many of your videos and they helped me greatly. I had to start regular morphine about 3 days before he passed because he was really unmanageable as far as hallucinations were going. He was trying to get out of bed and go somewhere and the morphine calmed him down and helped him rest. They gave another anti-psychotic drug, but he really got out of control on that. It made his hallucinations far worse. I felt bad drugging him but it was for his own safety. He finally went into a comatose type sleep. Right before he went into this sleep, he sat up in bed and was looking out, just looking out as if he was seeing something. While he did this he was saying whoa, whoa, whoa as if in amazement. He layed back in his bed and that was the last time he moved and passed 5.5 hours later. We are Christians and believe that is when God took his spirit and he was seeing amazing things he's never seen before. Whoever reads this I pray you can embrace death because what God has for His children is much better than what we have here in this life.

[@kellyyork3898]

Remember, lots of people on earth believe in other mythologies instead of Christianity, including those who belong to cults.

[@susandonoghue7933]

Yes my Dad passed 19th September 2022 at home , hospice Angel nurses came every morning, the last 2days my dad had been given morphine to help with death rattle or pain he may have had , my brother's sister and I was taking turns to sit with dad so he would never belone my brother and sister came at 12am to take over during that time my dad woke up and was fighting my brother and sister to get out of bed he had be in deep sleep for over a week , and then again he woke up when I was there with him the straight he had wow I told him lovely that he needed to stop fighting me and rest he looked so confused then at 2:30am that morning he passed, my heart still hurts so much Reading all your stories does help me ty

[@JobyJoby-iw2wr]

Now that I’m stage 4 cancer and recently entered home hospice, I can truly say my condition has improved - should have been admitted last Summer. I’m now addicted to this subject matter. I have no idea how much time I have left - just trying to live each day as well as possible and trust my higher power’s judgment.😇

[@jeanbrennan7238]

As an RN and a former hospice RN, I found it important to ORDER morphine and have it available to give. If there are no medications in the home, by the time the RN gets out to evaluate, obtain an order, and have it delivered, the patient may have already passed painfully or the pain has escalated to the point where the pain medication takes a long time to be effective.

[@raedarden9830]

I'll remember that. Thanks much.

[@kellyyork3898]

Yes. I’m a 68 year old retired teacher and I’m afraid many of us will die in pain when the time comes because of all the laws now related to the use of powerful drugs and because of all the emphasis of dying “naturally”.

[@susanstamboulian646]

@@kellyyork3898 Exactly. These laws on prescription pain medications ONLY punish the people who truly need it, like me, and many others. The junkies will still get their pain pills on the streets, and many will die because they will be false Opioids, and wind up being Fentanyl. I do not have sympathy for those who do that, or use pain pills just to get high. We are the ones that suffer. I have severe chronic pain in my neck, spine, lower back, and both shoulders from a major car accident in 1996. No amount of physical therapy helps. I'm also on blood thinners because I have A-Fib, so I can't take Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Aspirin. Only acetaminophen, (Tylenol), which doesn't do a thing. As of last Jan 1, 2023, I was receiving 112 Hydrocodone pills every 28 days from Kaiser. 4 per day. Then, my doctor called and informed me that because of people dying of Fentanyl overdoses, Kaiser would begin tapering my usage 6 pills a month. (106, 100, 94, etc) As of today, I don't even get 2 pills a day, and am miserable. I literally spend half my life in bed, sleeping the days away, on purpose, to escape my pain. And, guess what? Kaiser isn't through tapering me!! Their goal is to get me off of Norco, completely, and have only Tylenol to take for horrific, chronic pain. I'm 50 years old, so I guess I have the rest of my life to look forward to being in utter pain and misery, just so Kaiser can be politically correct, and brag that they are reducing prescriptions of Opioids, in yet another government induced, false crisis. The mission to cut opioid use, by the crooked, lying, federal government, will only make the so-called "opioid crisis" a hundred times worse, as honest people, who have relied on these medications to function for years, will ultimately turn to the black market to get their medication. Naturally, they will eventually run into Fentanyl laced pills and wind up dying. But hey, at least Kaiser, and the crooks at the FDA and CDC, and politicians, can brag that opioid use is down, and to hell with all the people that are suffering needlessly, when there is medication that can help them live less painful lives, and have better quality of life. It is absolutely disgusting, what they are doing. I can only wonder what the next government induced crisis will be?? As for me, if I ever get terminal, shoot me full of Morphine, and let the Opioid Nazis lose their tiny little minds over it.

[@robinmorris4378]

Hi Julie my mother is 90 and has just started hospice, she has morbid osteoporosis and and very labored breathing😢 today we were advised to give morphine to help with her labored breathing, I'm concerned that using morphine could expedite her passing . Am I wrong in thinking this? Thank you your information helps make a bad situation a little easier.

[@MindBodySoulOk]

If I had to do it over I would have tripled the Morphine I gave my father.

[@thesundreamers8423]

Julie its' 5:00am in Georgia. I just spent the night with my brother in law who passed a couple of hours ago in Florence SC hospice. We had THE MOST AMAZING NURSE. SO SWEET. Truly an angel. At one point she was making us coffee. I told her, " I watch this hospice nurse on KZbin....Nurse Julie. She is awesome." She said yeah, I watch her too and love her. Sometimes when I'm getting ready for my shift I just want to say to her, "here was my day." About an hour after my brother in law passed.....I saw her name badge as she consoled us.....her name is Julie too.

[@annekennedy372]

Thank you Julie! Your videos are so helpful and informative. My mother passed away 1 week ago in hospice care from dementia almost 97 years old. The hospice nurses were wonderful. They gave her morphine to make her comfortable and she passed away peacefully and comfortably in 36 hours. Hospice caregivers are angels on Earth!❤

[@darrellcrawford4946]

How long did your mom have dreaded dementia disease before she passed

[@jodyel]

My mother is 85 and has dementia. But she is far from dying. Still gets up, dresses, eats (some), does a little makeup, and goes out with me on errands, etc. The hallucinations are interesting, from seeing children running around the house to kids sitting in the trees in our backyard, and a brown tarp in the neighbor's backyard is a wild buffalo carcass. Can be amusing at times. I often wonder how long it might be before this phase comes. I hope not for many more years.

[@pattyraczynski9566]

My Mother passed away from Rectal cancer. She was in excruciating pain. We gave her sublingual Ativan and sublingual Roxynol. If I didnt give it every few hours, she became restless, and started moaning. Thank you for explaining the differences….I’m just here to say…I gave her as much as she needed. She was actively dying for 5 days..no way was I not giving her meds.

[@michaelknapp8961]

Good for you!!! I was lucky my 89 year old mother simply passed away in her sleep without any pain. She had dementia and we had to put her in a facility and the night she died they found her in her bed with the biggest smile on her face!! It was the kind of smile when you see something totally amazing!!! It gave me great comfort knowing about this smile.

[@pattyraczynski9566]

@@michaelknapp8961 , that is so amazing Michael! My Mom had a smile on her face after her last breath. It was as though she was so relieved. I got on my knees and thanked God for taking her. To see her that way was unbearable . I gave her meds, meds, meds. She suffered so much. You are very lucky that your Mom passed that way. Im sure the dementia was very hard to deal with. What’s important is that you were there.

[@Usercantwelve]

The minute Im wheeled into Hospice I want Morphine. !!! I dont want to go through any process!.Im Dying ..WTH 💕

[@hospicenursejulie]

😂😂😂😂😂- You can have it!! I promise! I just mean- NOT everyone needs morphine

[@Usercantwelve]

@@hospicenursejulie 😂😂😂

[@annettemastenchickenlove]

Yup me too, put me out and let's get ur done

[@lovesallanimals9948]

​@@annettemastenchickenloveI'm doing it myself😊

[@2legit2quit4u]

I want morphine. Make sure I am not in pain.

[@Hootncozy]

Mom was on palliative care where her doc prescribed medication for pain and anxiety. But only because she was dying from not being able to breathe and her body filling with co2 and extreme pain. It really made her transition peaceful for her.

[@russolmt]

Hi Julie, thanks for clarifying. My dad when he was dying had gangrene. Each time the nurses changed the bandages he was in much pain. Even though he was actively dying the family decided we did not want him to be in pain, therefore the morphine was given.

[@barbolson4964]

Because of you, Julie, I was able to be by my mom’s side as she passed, without any fear or concern. Thank you for your channel and wisdom!

[@ot8210]

Morphine did not work for my wife and they had to put her on something stronger but now I can’t or even want to remember what it was called. Gosh I miss my wife but I know she’s in heaven and so will I once I expire. Your videos have helped me understand what my family and I went thru while my wife was passing away. It still stings after 13 years.

[@karengladue4383]

Thank You Nurse Julie. My Mom passed 2 yrs ago tomorrow at home with Hospice care and I was with her. She had horrible sores and there was no way I was going to watch her go through the last days without morphine. She was non- communicative, but I could see it in her eyes. When she passed, I had so much guilt that I didn't do enough, or followed up on the RNs not showing up when they were sheduled to come. Since then, I gave watched and listened to you about dying.I have a better understanding of life's process. I appreciate it, it has given me some confort. Again, thank you

[@susandonoghue7933]

Yes same here did I do enough?

[@Gramma5775]

Being with someone when they die is one of two very intimate experiences. The other is giving birth. Both are very beautiful if you are properly prepared. God bless.our Hospice nurses.

[@tamiewert808]

As a Palliative Nurse, we obtain end of life orders from the GP, but we only administer Morphine if clinically indicated by signs and symptoms demonstrated by the patient!

[@greyghost1962]

This is a little troubling to hear. It seems like there is such a resistance to pain medication due to the current drug epidemic. I feel providers are going way overboard on the anti-narcotic, anti-medicine campaign. I really love watching Nurse Julie but I very much disagree with this.

[@AsiaGuy2025]

@@greyghost1962, You are a trained palliative care provider? It's always good to hear differing views from professionals.

[@carolbullard7956]

My mom was in a hospice facility & had a bedsore that you could put your fist in & could see her spine. Thank God she was given Morphine!! It really is a case by case decision, but I'm all for it at the end of life.

[@mercuriall2810]

@@carolbullard7956 Absolutely. I am sorry to hear that your Mom developed such a pressure injury. Pressure care is often neglected, but sometimes even with the best of care these wounds can happen. There is nothing wrong with prescribing morphine when it is required and unfortunately the stigma attached to opiates and opiods can result in it not being prescribed, or opposed by next of kin, when it is appropriate. That said, as Nurse Julie explains, the process of actively dying certainly isn’t an indication for morphine (or midazolam for that matter) in and of itself.

[@margerykirner5604]

@@greyghost1962 you are absolutely correct

[@gcaruthers17026]

Thank you Nurse Julie. Your videos have helped me so much during this difficult time in my mom’s journey on hospice. God bless you for what you’re doing!

[@mmsapollo]

100% correct Julie. So grateful that you cleared this up.

[@panamafloyd1469]

Thanks for this, Julie. I'd always imagined my own time in hospice at death as just being '..sitting in a rocking chair on the porch on a warm summer day..' with a bloodstream full of morphine. "Nothing to Fear", indeed. You're helping.

[@Mykee1997]

Julie, You are doing a Great Service as you educating the general public of which, if I may say, so many do not have this information

[@Yuyulicious909]

Thank you Nurse Julie for being so informative, your videos have really helped me understand what I’m currently going thru with my mom, she’s on hospice and is very near the end, you have made me see things a lot different and not be so fearful about the dying process. Thank you so much. God bless you ❤️

[@curtiscroulet8715]

My wife died last year at home of pancreatic cancer. The had hospice care. While she was still somewhat responsive, she complained that she was in pain when we asked her, and morphine did not alleviate it. A hospice nurse tried to roll her on her side, so she could inspect my wife's back and the sheet on the bed, and my wife howled in pain. I don't know where, specifically, she was hurting. But the point here is that she was in pain, even though she was dying (and she knew she was dying), and the morphine didn't help much.

[@hospicenursejulie]

I'm so sorry to hear this- there are several medications we can use for pain if morphine isn't effective - but we also could increase morphine

[@moose2154]

This is terrifying! How do I make sure that whoever is taking care of me in the end is giving me ALL the pain meds? I'm dying and don't care if I die a little earlier because of an overdose...that actually sounds pretty sweet. What I'm terrified of is dying in pain!

[@anitastanley8986]

It’s not,the whole answer. My late daughterneeded another drug, I cannot recall its name.

[@raedarden9830]

@@moose2154I'm going to discuss it with my doctor and put it in writing beforehand...Give me what I need to pass peacefully, painlessly, and without fear or anxiety. God bless you.

[@linneahouskeeper1801]

My father who died of pancreatic cancer stage 4 was in excruciating pain. I gave him morphine every hour as directed by hospice. Especially when he was actively dying stage. He died with a look of horror and screaming. Halidol was also very helpful. Whether the pain was constipation or gas, he was still in pain. We had huge fights-my mother, sister, and I about whether to give him the morphine regularly. I did because when my father called out in pain it was unmistakable. 19 days from prognosis to death. His suffering several clusters of strokes bc of the pancreatic cancer but before any cancer diagnosis was just the cherry on top that took the better part of his cognition. I slept with him almost every night. The night he died I fell asleep holding his hand. My dad was a bloody John Wayne Cowboy, but cancer decimated him. 6 foot 3 inches and 130 pounds.

[@fionasmom6254]

I'm so sorry

[@stromboli4]

I am so sorry for your loss. I am grateful that your immense love & compassion for your father, guided you to do everything in your power to alleviate his suffering. May your father rest in peace, and May you be at peace knowing you were guided by love. 🙏

[@shaunbarr1856]

Madazalam and Morphine in a combination PRN given to palliative patients in Australia. I was an RN in a dementia ward for 12 years. This helped with agitation and pain and helped settle the patient and make them more comfortable. 🙏

[@Papa-hs6yg]

You are articulate and I'm glad to have found your channel. I have been through 2 family hospice deaths. In neither of them was the picture quite as you portray it here, and I understand you acknowledge you don't speak for all hospice companies. But my experience in those 2 deaths was this-#1 the hospice nurse only comes once a week, without notice or prearrangement so family can be there. #2 when family is certain from the cues you listed that the patient is in pain, there is reluctance to administer morphine and the doctor has to be consulted first and has to approve and that takes time and there is no immediate administration of morphine even if needed. Both experiences for family and patient very bad, for those reasons. I will review your other videos and hopefully find some guidance on getting a good hospice provider, not the one the nursing or retirement home wants (and may be getting kickback from) and getting somehow some assurance that the remote doctor will support the request for morphine. Everyone must be reminded that the hospice companies are getting I believe about $6000 a month from Medicare and its in their interest even when nonprofit to prolong the death (not that they therefore necessarily do so, I admit). So the family has to ask/beg the once a week nurse and hear the nurse say "I have to call the doctor first" -- i.e., overcome two hurdles and endure days, sometimes weeks of delay while patient is in pain. I hope you can respond to this comment and tell me that I'm wrong in any way, or misleading, and that I can, with your guidance, find a hospice next time around that is different than what I've seen. Since there is probably no way to just get the best hospice in town, then my final suggestion is this--when the family realizes that they've got a bad hospice, address the process by which they dismiss that company and go to another, and perhaps yet another, until they find the right one, the one that performs more like you do. That includes-1)do they have the contractual right to dismiss a hospice company when they wish, and 2)what steps are involved in doing so.

[@mw6320]

Your education helped me so much! My Mom died a week ago. She was on hospice for two weeks. The actively dying symptoms you discussed lasted around two days. Despite cancer, she went peacefully. I followed your advice and recognized the process. Knowledge brought me relief and calm. I was blessed to be able to be there for my Mom during her last weeks, hours and minutes. Thank you so very much! Your style is such a wonderful balance of factual expertise and sensitive understanding that you are mainly speaking to the loved ones who have to face the sorrow and at times terror of the loved ones passing

[@KurtGAndersen]

I have always had similar thoughts and practise around this subject. Its good to have such thoughts explained in a practical way - so thanks for that. Regards from long time nursing home for elderly night shift nurse…😊

[@jodiesmith1991]

My mamma passed away 5 days ago, thank you for being a guide on this journey.

[@timisa58]

Good, objective information. I held my children's mother in my arms as she passed away. I sat by my mother's side when she passed away. Neither looked like they were in pain towards the end. I do not recall if my late wife was on morphine, but my mother was and I am grateful that neither were in pain. I think these up-close and intimate experiences help me to be far less anxious about the prospect of death. Thank you.

[@KG-gz4ku]

My dad passed in hospise in dec, at home. Your videos have helped me so much. Thank you!!

[@pam8784]

Thank you so much Julie! My mom suffered from cancer and passed away three days ago. Your Videos have been so helpfull for me to understand, what was happening. Best regards from Germany.

[@divadee9579]

Just started watching your videos. Thank you, Julie. You are a gifted spirit to share your knowledge with others.

[@seanbutterfield1]

I appreciate your content so much as a fellow hospice nurse. It really brings nuance to my practice with my patients and new ways to explain things to them and their families. Watching your videos is better than most CEUs I have taken for my license.

[@PennieClary]

I just wanna say thank you for your videos. Watching your videos helped me understand everything that was going on. My mother just passed Feb 23rd. And I knew wat to expect by watching your videos. Thank you so much.

[@piccadelly9360]

Thank you for your contributions, it helps a lot to understand what actually pushed away by society , but it is part of life

[@KellieKnight-dy8bu]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Your patients are very lucky to have you

[@Julieisnot]

I’m so grateful for your videos and because of them I think of death differently than ever before. Prior to this I never thought about the whole process of life, from conception to death and the continuous changes throughout our lives. It’s all such a miracle and I’m incredibly in awe of life itself.

[@l.elliott809]

My youngest brother passed away yesterday at a hospice he had been in for less than 24 hours. He had been in the hospital for over a week prior to that. He had too many issues to talk about but the morphine helped to make him comfortable until his passing. My son and I were able to feel like we had made the right choice and that helped us overall.

[@katg2187]

If you are care giving for a dying person, I think it is a very good idea to get all meds in a sublingual from. Because when they become unable to swallow you can give those med to them easily.

[@dianamariecentro4664]

Thank you. I just lost my brother on March 25,he went through almost everything you said and my mother is now going through. Your videos and advice really does help. Thank you ❤

[@LindaBarham]

They can hear you when They are actively kind. I know this because my mother had gone silent the last day. They had a pastor come in and say a prayer and even though she had been silent for many many hours she reached up during one part of the prayer with her hand and grabbed for the pastors. That was the only communication we had that day.

[@Tom-kf6nz]

Hi Julie, my ex-gf best friend is actively dying at the moment. She will pass within the next few days. I've watched many of your videos over the past few months knowing that these days will come. Through your efforts I'm fairly educated about death's phases, I'm less overwhelmed and more confident about how to handle the ongoing process. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. ❤

[@suellenspencer-eb2nv]

Thank you Julie. Explained very well.( From a retired hospice nurse).😊 ❤❤❤

[@Worldpeace353]

Julie you are the best at speaking and we appreciate your input Thankfully hospice allowed my brother to say bye bye peacefully I'm all about it.

[@maryboggan8251]

My mother died last Monday on in home hospice for end stage Alzhiemers. She was receiving morphine 2wks prior 3 times a day.Then when she became NPO, they increased it to q2hrs. She died 7 days after NPO. She died peacefully in her sleep.

[@robertmorris7256]

YOU ARE THE GREATEST, WISHED ID SEEN YOU WHEN MY MOM PASSED. THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO

[@adamvose2651]

I listened to someone die with no pain medication the sounds and screams that came from him sounded like what i picture hell to sound like it wasnt human i hope those who would deny it to someone else could hear those sounds replaying in my head they must not know just what kind of pain someone can withstand and remain conscience

[@jamesspencer1463]

Thank you for this video Julie ❤

[@nancylyon-gray3499]

I just wanted to tell you how beautiful you have become. Your hair and make-up are perfect. Your face lights up. I really enjoy you and your channel. I am fascinated by death - I have a strong faith in God. But I am fearful like everybody else. Thank you for educating us. We need it!

[@hospicenursejulie]

Wow!!! Thank you so much!!

[@sharong8511]

@@hospicenursejulie My favourite nurse when I had a cholecystectomy looked like you; soft, blonde hair, soft makeup with pretty pink lipstick and she wore a pink sweater over her scrubs. I would light up when she came on shift! And I was in excruciating pain during the first three days of recovery. This was 1986, right before the small incision with the laser became available where I am. The nurse who helped me then was an older woman. She was a bigger gal, no makeup and she gave me beautiful mother vibes. Glory to Nurses. I love you all. Pretty or plain, big or small, nurses rock!

[@carolbullard7956]

My mom was in a hospice facility & had a bedsore that you could put your fist in & you could see her spine. Thank God she was given Morphine!! I am ALL for Morphine at the end of life. I do agree that not every patient that's in hospice needs Morphine. It's definitely a case by case decision.

[@deniseteraoka3374]

Thank you for this video and I so wish I had this information a year ago as my mom was actively dying. She had suffered from back and leg pain for years. At the time she was placed in hospice she was deteriorating-she was 97-but was conscious, eating, breathing obviously, talk and sing and articulate her thoughts and needs. But when asked what her pain level was she’d say 9 or 10 as she had to her orthopedist. Morphine would be given to her at at least 4 hour intervals because the hospice nurses didnt want her “in pain.” But that made her itchy and caused her to scratch herself causing bleeding. She could barely wake up and was in a constant groggy, drugged out state. But because she answered 9-10 for the pain level they kept it up despite family protestations. Finally, we demanded they stop and give her Benadryl instead. She CALMED down, REGAINED consciousness and was able to die with DIGNITY and in her own time. Morphine may be the answer for some but not my mom in the doses she received.

[@woobykal68]

THankyou. your videos have made me much less fearefull of dying.

[@michellemartorell2394]

I only give Grandpa morphine when he can't breathe

[@dalequale9365]

My 82 year old mother succumbed to esophagus cancer and wanted to die at home so an earth angel neighbor and hospice team made it so. Morphine was used when she was still ambulatory, she was soo happy. Soon her sofa became her death bed. Changing her diaper, I was grateful to pay her back, not feel helpless and useless. Morphine was pushed to hasten death, the nurses said in so many words. Just happy she avoided the hospital or nursing home. 😥🙏

[@thinkforyourself-t6l]

In my experience morphine doesn't so much hasten death as it gives the dying person respite from the pain so they can cope with the hard work of letting go. I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear mama. Her memory is a blessing. ❤

[@amyalbers4195]

Great video, my father was given Morphine as well, not sure if he really needed it or not. But I just really learned something from this, thank you

[@gcaruthers17026]

Thanks!

[@hospicenursejulie]

Thank you! 💕💕💕✨✨✨

[@renepena3024]

Because of a wonderful nurse who explained the dying process to me (which NO doctor did), I was able to make the decision to bring my home on hospice which is where I knew she preferred to be.

[@lynnekern3998]

My Mother was given morphine the last couple days of her life because she had been on Fentynal patches for years for chronic back pain and they weren't giving the patches any more so she needed something. My Mom was very peaceful and I was grateful she didn't have to suffer anymore.

[@stevenford1963]

Thank you my wife is on her deathbed and your videos have helped me.

[@marij6374]

Thank you. I do agree. My husband did not need any medications. It was so very, very wrong. I do know that. He actually did have the "pain endorphins happening." At the time, I was too exhausted to "fight" the medical system. In hindsight, it is one of my biggest regrets. I do know better now, and appreciate the confirmation.

[@interestinginfo6765]

What if a person is not in pain but highly anxious? What is given?

[@mercuriall2810]

Well said, Nurse Julie! Unfortunately the stigma attached to morphine and other opiates/opiods can result in them being withheld when they are clearly indicated. Sometimes family oppose morphine and derivatives due to the stigma, too. That said, a patient being in the actively dying phase is certainly not a reason to prescribe morphine (or midazolam for that matter) in and of itself. Of course, if there are signs of untreated pain, respiratory distress/suffocating hunger for air sensations then it is a very useful drug. I am surprised to see comments that seem to think that you’re discouraging the use of morphine when there are indications that it would be appropriate, I felt you very clearly explained the fact that actively dying patients do not need morphine by default, but morphine is an effective choice of medication for some symptoms patients may experience. Thank you for this channel, you provide excellent insight into hospice care and the process of dying.

[@robertfoy5886]

I don't care what you say. I have already told my wife...I want the HIGHEST level of whatever drugs can be given once I reach that stage. I actually had a morphine drip once in the early 90s (surgery) and can confirm this is how I want to die. Extremely happy and in no pain...whether you can "detect" it or not. I want to be reliving Cheech and Chong moments saying things like: "Dave's not here".

[@Uprightfossil]

I worked as a private caregiver in a hospice. Paid privately by families. I’ve seen it over and over where meds are used to end life. May not be used in all Hospices, or be the way it should be… but it definitely happens.

[@henriettacog8971]

I've seen it COUNTLESS times in many different hospice facilities. I'm a Pastor and I have yet to see ONE patient pass WITHOUT Morphine. When the nurse walks into the room with a syringe and announces the patient is in pain and proceeds to inject the Morphine, I always know the end will be very soon.

[@davidrochon6941]

My 40years old son was in hospice from multiple scorosis an he was medically meds keep him sleeping on an off he would wake up but went back sleep...he passed peacefully an without hospice he could suffered...he did have IVs help him rest main part was for us family because he knew he was sick we didn't want tell him end....he went peacefully thanks to hospice...

[@donmcallister3745]

I will be reading Julie’s book… the more information and knowledge you have will help make this process easier to understand and deal with… when necessary. Thanks 🙏 for your channel and information Julie… 🌜🌞🌛

[@HuguetteBC]

So yesterday I ok hospice and today I’m told my mom, who has dementia, is on morphine. Thanks for the video.

[@HuguetteBC]

And she died 5 hours ago. The hospice nurse said something I never thought about. This was the same nurse that took care of my dad last year when he passed and I asked let us know when u think my mom will pass as we weren’t there for my dad’s passing. She explained that some people like to have privacy when they die and she’s seen many people die the second the family leaves, so don’t beat yourself up. I want to thank Sydney for that.

[@sharonbelcher9635]

Thank you for this. I have been with so many that did what you said. Couldn’t touch them for them crying out in pain. Couldn’t touch them at all . My friend was shaking so bad I thought she was having seizures, coming out of bed shaking. Hospice nurses don’t give meds but palliative nurses do? Why

[@jenniferhardin5470]

Hey Julie i ordered your book.i cant wait

[@hospicenursejulie]

Thank you 💕💕💕

[@boraborabob1]

watch every one of her great videos and save the book money.

[@carguy4243]

My grandma was on hospice with cancer in her brain. I went and visited her on a Saturday and she was barely conscious, knew I was there, and said a few things to me. I was told that right after I left, she had a very bad seizure. The hospice nurse decided to put her on morphine. Aftet that, she was unconscious and didn't eat or drink for a week. She was basically in a coma and passed the following Saturday.

[@meghancronin9156]

Thanks Julie ❤ you’re the best

[@hospicenursejulie]

You're the best!

[@lookingupwithwonder]

Just working this out tonight as my mum is dying here in the nursing home. Mum's breathing is faster than normal and deep with open mouth. Not quite a death rattle though. She is tachycardic and she feels really hot so she might have a temp. She has had a bit of urine output but her water intake is minimal as it's via an oral care sponge occasionally. Her face is calm, unless she is repositioned and she winces. The carers are having a tough time working out whether they should change her incontinence pad or not. Mum was discharged from older adult mental health inpatients about 2-3 weeks ago. The nursing home GP has been taking his sweet time, he hasn't assessed her since she was discharged. 😢 I thought they were supposed to see them within 7 days? Although he will be here in the morning, I don't want to wait that long. The lovely RN is arranging a locum to come to assess her and prescribe pain relief if needed.

[@klaverfour8999]

Thank you so much for your talks... we Laarne so much in such an easy natural way ! XOXO

[@furnjezy]

3:13 Very important not to remove the pain medicine as the body now relies on it.

[@regina7795]

That was a very confusing time helping my 82 yr old aunt thru her transition not knowing when and if to use morphine. The nurse told me that the restlessness and sounds of pain was due to dementia and anxiety. I didn’t want her unconscious all the time if not needed.

[@glennralph7007]

You do a very noble job. Thank you. And pretty easy on the eyes!

[@EBFNOQMAGNO]

I always thought we were actively dyeing, the moment we were born. But, I get it. Great Video!!

[@simplyblessed369]

❤Thank you Julie❤Love you!!!❤

[@robind2727]

The deaths of both my parents on hospice was a different scenario. My parents were given morphine every hour on the hour. Mom passed about 12hrs later and Dad about 7hrs. I basically thought they were being overdosed.

[@illawarriorhill70]

Would you have preferred them to longer to die??? If so, why? When my mother was dying, it was agony to watch ... something that I definitely would not want to prolong, and would have willingly hastened if the law had permitted.

[@moose2154]

Yes, please. I would rather be overdosed than experience any potential pain.

[@Unknownentityanon]

Do you think that morphine hastened their deaths? I can assure you that this doesn't happen. If that were the case, we wouldn't be giving it to people for postoperative pain, or any pain really now, would we? I have chronic pain and after emergency back surgery the doctors at the hospital changed my meds from morphine to methadone. Methadone is an opioid rather than an opiate like morphine and my body just doesn't react with it, and I think it could be because methadone is artificial. Anyway, my point is that your parents didn't pass any sooner than they would have without morphine and they were saved from unnecessary pain in their final days on Earth. For this you can be grateful and you can put your mind at ease. They did not suffer, which is a great deal more than I can say about the countless people who die every day. They slipped away in a warm bed, in comfort with no pain, and had been well cared for in their last moments. Compare this with the people who die in accidents, or war, or by murder, or in tragedy, by suicide. Think of how much pain and fear those people endured. I know the pain of losing Mom and Dad. I was 16. I know that you're hurting. I so much wish that I could take away the pain and suffering of every creature here, but I can't. I don't believe it's possible to achieve this in this realm. It is for God. And I think we have to move onto the next existence to continue to grow into that which we are. I don't want to get into philosophy here, I'm only saying that death hurts the living left behind, by the absence of the ones who were so very much loved. For those who have died, it sounds like they go through the most fantastic experience, if the stories of the people who have been in near death experiences are correct. I believe they are. I truly believe that I will see my parents and my pets again. I believe that they all like it when I talk to them. This is my choice; we each have our own. My hope for you is that you follow your heart, listen to your whole self, and free yourself from any bad emotions (anger, fear, guilt, etc.), that you might be saddled with because they don't serve you. They're natural, but there comes a time when their purpose becomes invalid and that time is short. These emotions are meant to be immediate and then tossed aside. For a lesson or to prompt action, then disposed. Not to be held any longer. Be kind to yourself and come to peace with the knowledge that this is how it is now, that this happened, it's passed, it is in the past now and nothing can change it. You've gone through it and you survived it. Wondering if your Mom and Dad were overdosed (they weren't), is not going to change the fact that they have moved up, just as we will one day. My wish for you is that you will find peace of mind, my sister. May this, and may freedom be yours!!! ps: I said God and I don't want to be offensive to any other beliefs, so use whatever higher power you have for what I call God, be it "the universe" or something else. 💞

[@klaverfour8999]

I feel the same. Lovely answer you toke time for. Bi hug and best wishes xxx

[@Unknownentityanon]

@@klaverfour8999 Me? Was this for me? If so, thank you for reading it all! You know, when I say it, it sounds so brief but once it's written it looks soooo loooong!! So assuming that your writing to me, thank you so much for your kind words and lovely wishes. A great big hug goes out to you too and I wish you peace and love and comfort when you need it. Be Well and thank you again for getting through my dissertation there!! You are Golden!!!

[@signet9542]

I think the most important thing in the nursing home is to get the roxinal ordered and have it on hand. Then when they need it, you don't have to wait for it to get delivered.

[@sandysharpe4037]

6:11 p.m. eastern time. Please answer my question. My mom had a terrible reaction to morphine and told me she never wanted to take it again. Years later when she was home on hospice, she was in pain and the nurse more or less, forced me to agree to give her morphine. She said she was in dire need of it. I agreed and 12 hours later my mom passed. Did l make the right decision? I have dealt with guilt daily. I have it on my mind daily knowing my mom never wanted that drug again. I blame myself for her death.

[@elainebraindrain3174]

She was at peace, no guilt❤

[@jessshedz6846]

Your mom would not want you to feel guilty and there is no need anymore

[@sandysharpe4037]

Thanks for the kind words. I just feel like l helped her go. She was so afraid of morphine. She flat lined after they gave it to her at the hospital when she was there for her heart, and made me promise to not let them give it to her ever. I keep hearing those words.

[@Elle-kr8od]

You mom never wanted to take morphine again for fear of another bad reaction. But our bodies reaction differently when we are dying. When your mom was in hospice, close to death, the morphine helped with her pain--so much better than leaving her suffering. And she didn't have a terrible reaction, just passing in 12 hours pain-free. You didn't cause her death, but allowed her to pass comfortably.

[@kframe1208]

I was given morphine when I was in the hospital once. It didn't take away my pain, it just made me not care about it. I didn't like it. Can you request to not be given morphine, and get other pain management medications instead?

[@idanvane]

On the 9th of February, not even a month ago, my grandmother passed at home, with me by her side. She had been on Fentanyl patches since a few weeks earlier and she seemed to have slipped into a coma or deep sleep during the night. I didn't get to talk to her anymore, but I do have a few questions regarding her death, seeing as it went exactly like some of the videos you have been sharing with us over the past couple of months. 1. Before she slipped into a coma, did she have any pain? It was during the night, so is it probable that she just "faded" in her sleep? Or did she almost choke to death, resulting in her coma? 2. Did she hear me talking to her and feel me holding her hand, even when she was in the last hours of death, completely unresponsive? Sometimes she tilted her head a bit when I said who would be arriving soon, but she obviously couldn't open her eyes or respond... I'm still pretty young - 18 years of age - and it made a huge impression on me, seeing her leave this life and everything in it. Therefore, any advice is welcome! Thank you in advance. :)

[@infopubs]

I think your grandmother knew you were there, heard your voice, felt your hand, and was comforted by your love and your presence. She was very lucky to have you by her side 💕

[@carolbullard7956]

I'm not a nurse, but my mom passed away in a hospice facility. There are 7 of us kids. We were there daily & I truly believe she knew we were there & could hear us. I tried really hard to step out of the room when I had to break down crying. Unfortunately, I had a sister who felt that she had to sleep in my mom's room every night. My brother stepped in & told her to go home & shower then come back. While my sister was gone, my mom passed away. I feel she didn't want anyone to see her pass away.

[@idanvane]

​@@infopubs Thank you for saying that. It's a huge comfort to know she probably knew I was there with her. ❤

[@idanvane]

​@@carolbullard7956 My grandma also passed away when everyone else was doing their own thing! We were all with her, but we were talking about my grandpa and not really paying attention to her, and at that moment she decided to go to sleep. 🥺❣️

[@Mr.SharkTooth-zc8rm]

Hi Julie. Hope you are having a great day. Off topic question. Have you noticed that there are now other Hospice channels popping up? 🖖

[@karenbrunette6314]

What do youdo if a patient is allergic to morphine

[@WickedWildlife]

I wish they could have given more morphine or any medication to my wife, She was on alot but spent the last 48 hours begging for us to help it end

[@rachelearles8768]

I'm very sorry that happened ❤

[@EricPeterson-e5n]

Thank you! I'm still dealing with the death of my mom two years ago

[@kelsiewilson]

My uncle is about to enter hospice care due to gleoblastoma. My dad has two types of cancer, pulmonary fibrosis and heart failure. They offered him 'end of life counseling' just this morning while getting radiation therapy It's going to hurt when they go.

[@mariashelnutt2950]

My momma went from seemingly ok and walking to not walking and not able to speak ... she took a very fast downward spiral and I still don't understand how it happened as quickly as it did. She passed very quickly and peaceful. She just fell asleep and stayed asleep until she passed... but it was very quick

[@BR-kk9qu]

Well explained… as always! Thank you!

[@hospicenursejulie]

Thank you 💕

[@godisgood5073]

Just wondering if you have heard of Jenny Apple's channel where she posted a video called "I'm Dying" and she went on hospice and died within a few days at home even though it never seemed like she went through the unconscious phase except as a result of being medicated.

[@bstamperdahl]

Thank you for this channel. So valuable.

[@ilovetotri23]

Makes so much sense! Thank you!

[@jamalsimmons4025]

My mother, who has been bedfast, double-incontinent, sleeps 23+ hours a day and has been under hospice care for an entire year was put on morphine a month ago. At the time, we were told that she had less than a week to live. Since she's already outlived that estimate by almost four weeks, I'm left wondering how much longer she can survive. It's agonizing seeing her in this state. I've prayed to God that He either heal her or let her die. So far, my prayers haven't been answered.

[@homeschoolingmamax2434]

I’m so sorry to hear this. I pray for your mom and her salvation. I pray for you to have comfort in our Lord. I’ve heard before I don’t know how true this is sometimes they worry about somebody else, and they need to be given permission to move on. Keep talking to her, even if you think she can’t listen Peace for you Jamal

[@jamalsimmons4025]

@@homeschoolingmamax2434 Thanks for your response. We are both believers. Mother is 91-years-old and is in the final stage of dementia. She hasn't known who I am for about two years. It was painful to hear her ask me, "Who are you?" over a year ago. I wouldn't wish this disease on even my worst enemy. Peace and blessings to you and, again, thank you.

[@leojansen2773]

I wish there who're more people like you around.

[@lynncassells9414]

The palliative hospital nurses wanted you to give our mom morphine but she didn’t want it but they gave her 0.5 mg anyway even though she stated she was not in pain, breathing was not laboured. Also l remember when my grandmother was dying the nurses wanted to give her morphine as they felt she needed it, her doctor refused stating he took an oath the preserve life not hasten it… that is not what they were doing it for.

[@microtyger]

Wow.. the patient's wishes should absolutely be respected on this! 😮

[@chrisa9159]

I am so confused. First let me say thank you for your videos as they are very informing. I have deathbed stories about my mom and dad, as many do and feel as if they were taken advantage of using hospice as a tool. Succinctly, my mom was end stage COPD and had a non-breathing attack that led her to a 5-day hospital stay. She had a plan on how she wanted to die (at home) and virtually stapled her DNR to her forehead (she was still a firecracker at that point and very clear in mind). Every day, my mom begged me to take her home, but another sibling had mom's medical proxy. Her proxy was emotionally determined to get her medical care (pushing the DNR to its limits). Finally, Monday morning, her proxy began to ask about Hospice (as I begged her for from the beginning as I disagreed with her previous decisions). They set her up the next day with full Hospice support. Then beyond my comprehension (as my mom was still alert, NOT in pain but no doubt coughing, having trouble breathing, eating, etc.), she was put on a regimen of morphine that rendered her in a 90% unconscious state drifting in and out. There she lied for 7 days without food or drink. We watched as her face quickly began to actually shrink and then she finally passed. The nurses and the proxy said she couldn't eat/drink with the amount of morphine she was taking. My thoughts were she was murdered (maybe that's strong), because she obviously didn't want (nor need) the drugs and she just wanted to die in her bed, naturally. We said our goodbye's in the hospital because my mom was suspicious that this would happen. I thought hospice was to keep a person comfortable while their body decided when it was time to die. Am I wrong?

[@Susan-c9q6r]

Hi Julie can you explain how someone who had multiple medical issues but were out to lunch one day and then died the next morning no slow lead up ??? Thank you for all your info

[@hospicenursejulie]

Yes- it happens a lot- for many different reasons 💕. I couldn't explain it in one sentence - I'd have to know ALOT more medical information 💕💕💕💕

[@chueysmama2622]

Thank you, I love you and know God blesses his highest angels, such as you, with the greatest forever.

[@raedarden9830]

Hopefully my final hours will be peaceful. But, before I reach them, I will discuss with my doctor and make it clear in writing that morphine, or additional medication(s) is to be administered if I am fearful/agitated, in severe pain or struggling to breathe. It simply will make the final hours easier for me and my family.

[@FemmiGirlz]

Great video. I e wondered that for myself. I am in daily chronic pain with three autoimmune diseases and congestive heart failure and if I were to happen to be in the dying phase and not verbal, I would wonder if they would control my pain because currently I take 10/325 Norco 4 x daily. That medication just barely takes care of my chronic pain every day. I’m suffering every day. The reason I’m suffering is because they have tried to give me fentanyl and morphine for my pain but because of my breathing issues I cannot take stronger painkillers therefore, I suffer every day, even though my pain management doctor has tried to help me with stronger medication‘s. It affects my breathing so much that I can’t breathe if I take anything stronger, I’m in a rock and a hard place here so I was always wondering if they would still continue to treat my chronic pain because I don’t want to suffer as I’m dying. Thank you so much for this video that makes me feel more at ease.