THE VIGIL

Keeping vigil is one of the most difficult aspects of end-of-life care. It can be overwhelming, and when one is already overcome with emotions, it may seem impossible to navigate on your own. As palliative nurses, we are well-versed in the nuances of keeping vigil over someone who is in the last hours of life.

We can provide emotional support to you and show you the little physical actions that make the transition for your loved one more comfortable and peaceful, and also give you a sense of helping them. Actions such as mouth care, temperature regulation, pain management, light washing, and providing a peaceful environment are all important aspects of the vigil. Of course, not everyone is comfortable being as involved and benefit more from being a presence for their loved one. In these cases, we are available to care physically for the dying in order to allow you to be fully present emotionally. Whatever you may need, we can help.