ABSTRACT
Dying is a natural part of life. It is the one life experience that is common to all. Advances in modern science and technology, new and emerging treatment modalities, are adding more and more time to life for people living with life-threatening illnesses. An alternative approach to this attitude of avoidance of dying and death is palliative care. Nursing care has two distinct aspects; clinical and hands-on care which focuses on the physical impact of the disease on the body, and the art of nursing which focuses on impact of the disease on the whole person. The chapter shares some thoughts with us on the special aspect of nursing which the author calls the art of nursing. In order to create a therapeutic environment the nurse must have excellent communication skills. The role of companion on the important journey is one that is interwoven throughout the nursing care of the dying.
