Infections

Infections at the end of life are common, and expected.

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Urinary

'UTIs' especially if there is a catheter in the bladder

Skin

Most often from ulcers developing at pressure points ('Pressure Ulcers') from
being unable to change position

Lung

From aspiration of normal secretions or from liquids or food taken by mouth

What is done

  • It important to understand that not all infections can or should be treated
  • Typically, urinary infections may be treated with antibiotics
  • Skin breakdown, ulcers are usually treated with local measures (Creams, Dressings)
  • The hospice team will concentrate on skin care at the time of each visit
  • Lung infections are more complicated, and often antibiotics do more harm than good or simply do not work
  • Dying from, with dementia, is usually the result of recurrent infections, especially pneumonia
  • This is what happens, what is expected at this stage, and is largely unavoidable
  • Giving antibiotics often do not help as they need a healthier body in order to work as intended

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