A hospice nurse has revealed some unexpected insights she has gained about death.
Known as Hospice Nurse Julie on YouTube, Julie utilizes her channel to inform others and offer comfort and support to those who are apprehensive or uneasy about the concept of dying.
The idea of death can be daunting, leading many to avoid contemplating it too often.
However, Julie mentions that her extensive experience with patients nearing the end of their lives has made her feel less afraid of death.
In one of her videos, Julie discusses three surprising lessons she has learned about death, emphasizing that understanding the reality of the dying process can be incredibly helpful, despite the many uncertainties surrounding it.
She noted that even if someone is unconscious and unresponsive, they might still be able to hear those nearby.
Therefore, Julie advises people to be mindful of their conversations and to speak directly to the person, rather than discussing them as if they are not there.
“We do believe they can hear us,” she stated.
“Talk to your loved one like they’re there, like they can respond back, even if they cannot. Say the things you need and want to say. Don’t talk about them like they’re not there.
“If you’re in the room with your loved one, be respectful to them and don’t argue.”
Julie recounted her experiences in ICU with coma patients, who, upon waking, often reported being aware of certain conversations and the presence of others.
Julie noted: “The different death bed phenomenon is mind-blowing. It happens at the end of life… death bed visioning, choosing when they’re going to die, waiting for people to come into the room, waiting for people to leave… seeing it with my own eyes was shocking and comforting.”
She observes that these death phenomena are so frequent that she feels driven to share this knowledge with others.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTikhOFJdK8
Julie also explained that dehydration towards the end of life can result in a more peaceful passing.
“Dehydration at the end of life will help you die more peacefully, a dying body cannot handle the hydration that a living body can,” the hospice nurse noted.
“They’ll become fluid overloaded, the heart can’t pump the fluid like it should, it won’t stay intravascular in the person’s veins and arteries, it will cause swelling and respiratory distress.”
She expressed awe at how the body assists in the dying process.
“Our bodies will start helping us be more dehydrated, the body knows that the more dehydrated you are the better you’ll feel,” she added.
“You’ll go into ketosis and your body will release endorphins that will give you a euphoric feeling and start dulling pain.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and wish to speak with someone confidentially, reach out to The Compassionate Friends at (877) 969-0010.