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SamaritanNJ.org 17%u2022 Hearing is one of the last senses to fail. Be mindful that your loved one may be able to hear you despite being unable to respond. Therefore, there is time to say those things you want to say. Continue to give explanations to your loved one.%u2022 Tenderness and closeness are most important. Do not hesitate to touch your loved one.%u2022 Continue comfort measures, good mouth care, positioning.URINE OUTPUT CHANGE%u2022 Urine output will decrease as fluid intake decreases. Urine may become dark with a strong odor. Offer fluids if tolerated and your loved one is able to swallow.%u2022 If no urine output and your loved one has foley catheter (a flexible tube that passes through the urethra and into the bladder to drain urine), check for kinks, make sure tubing is not under your loved one and that the bag is lower than your loved one.%u2022 Notify nurse if no urine output in 8-12 hours.SEIZURES (Often caused by high temperature or brain tumor)%u2022 Notify your nurse promptly!%u2022 Turn your loved one on their side to help breathing. Do not try to hold your loved one down.%u2022 If possible, try to observe which area of the body is shaking and the length of time of the seizure.%u2022 Do not place anything in your loved one%u2019s mouth.%u2022 Protect your loved one by padding them with pillows.SLEEP PROBLEMS%u2022 Darkness may be frightening. Leave a small light on.%u2022 Your loved one may be napping all day, unable to sleep at night.%u2022 Relaxation exercises, soft music, TV; warm milk, caffeine free warm drinks.%u2022 Administer sleep medication as ordered.SWALLOWING DIFFICULTY%u2022 Soft foods (not dry) often are easier to swallow than liquids. Give liquids into the side of cheek using an eyedropper, 10cc syringe, or small spoon. Water is often the cause of coughing and choking. Milk shakes, baby food, and pureed foods are better.%u2022 Your nurse must be notified if your loved one cannot swallow medications, especially pain medication.%u2022 Do not crush medications or open any capsules unless instructed by the nurse.%u2022 Check the inside of your loved one%u2019s mouth for white patches and ask if there is burning or discomfort when swallowing; notify nurse if present.VOMITING%u2022 Record times to determine frequency and approximate amounts. If vomiting exhibits any blood or coffee-ground consistency, please notify nurse.%u2022 Stop all food and liquids for at least 2 hours. Give ordered medication for nausea and vomiting. If tolerating liquids, gradually add bland food, rice, toast, Jell-O.%u2022 If vomiting continues, notify your nurse.