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Respiratory secretions at end of life — DGM MCQ

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EasyEnd-of-life careRespiratory secretions at end of lifeDGM

An 92-year-old woman dying from frailty becomes noisy with respiratory secretions. She is unconscious, not distressed and her daughter is frightened by the sound. Mouth care is being provided. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Reposition, explain the symptom and consider antisecretory medicine if distressing

Noisy respiratory secretions near the end of life often distress relatives more than the unconscious patient, so explanation and repositioning are important. Antisecretory medicine can be considered if secretions are distressing, but deep suctioning can be uncomfortable and ineffective. Communication is part of symptom control.

Reference: NICE NG31