ABSTRACT
Introduction In this chapter the nature and circumstances of death are discussed, along with the physical, psychosocial and ethico-legal issues that accompany expected and unexpected death. The nurse has a significant role to play in helping patients to achieve a comfortable and dignified death, wherever it takes place and within the law.The nurse also has a professional duty within the scope of the NMC Code (2008) (Appendix 1) to ensure that the health and well-being of patients and their families are protected and promoted and that their care is dignified, honest and of the highest standard from diagnosis to death.
