I am concerned about an elderly man. He is on NPO and based on what the family has read without water by mouth he should only hang on for 3-5 days. It has been 7 as of today. The family is wondering if all the injections the patient is being given contribute to some hydration and therefore may be keeping the poor man alive

Injections for what? No IVs?

No iv's. The injections are suppose to be for pain control. He is receiving 4 large syringes full of meds every 4 hours. He has an advanced directive that won't allow for life support

What is your concern for him? That he is thirsty and should be getting water? That he hasn't died yet?

Is he awake and alert?

He has been unresponsive for two days to anything but painful stimuli. We are hoping not to have a prolonged process to the end. He can't have anything by mouth due to an injury that totally messed up his throat muscles. He has not been given any food by any means for almost 10 days and his IV drip was discontinued 7 days ago. It is tearing the family apart watching him waste away

And his advanced directive is in order?

Fortunately yes

Then his family has no choice but to patiently wait, and pray for a speedy end to his earthly journey.

Has a harpist been brought in, or is any soothing music being played for him?

I have brought in his favorite nature sounds, big bands and celtic cds and the hospice is providing aroma therapy and they are allowing his old dog to sleep on the bed with him.

Thank you. I am going to the hospice to sit with the family for a few hours. I really appreciate your responding to me. It means a lot

I may come to your hospice someday when I'm ready to die -- if I can bring my cats and my doo-wop CDs.