Bodily Functions

There might be a change in bowel or bladder habits. Loss of bladder and/or bowel control (incontinence) might occur. If a bladder catheter is in place, you might notice the urine becoming dark and the amount decreasing as death approaches. Loss of bowel and bladder control is often not a problem until death is imminent.

The hospice nurse can provide pads to protect the bed linen. Change pads as needed to keep the bed as clean and dry as possible. Your hospice nurse will show you how to place pads under the patient and other ways to keep the skin clean, warm and dry.