The Ship Captain’s Medical Guide – Chapter 12 – The Dying and the Dead

There is no stage when nothing more can be done to help a patient. We may be unable to prevent the person from dying, but there remains the task of ensuring that the patient is protected from unnecessary suffering and pain, that he has people around to care for him, and that his dignity as a human being is preserved and respected. If the patient is obviously dying and you believe that death is inevitable, you should make sure that the person remains tranquil in mind and in body during the period of dying. Comfort, companionship, compassion, and the complete relief both of mental and physical suffering, should be the aims. If slight pain is present, it must be relieved by giving simple painkillers. If the patient is suffering from severe pain then morphine is appropriate. Morphine has the added benefit of relieving anxiety. In the event of mental distress, confusion, or behavioural problems consider sedation or tranquillizers.