When Mrs. Achieng’s father, Mr. Otieno, fell seriously ill, the family knew they needed professional support at home. They hired a skilled home nurse, Esther, to manage his medications, monitor vital signs, and provide the medical attention he required. But what they quickly learned was that caring for someone at home isn’t just about the right medications or therapies—it’s about family presence for the person you love so they can accelerate healing through love and care.
Esther guided the family through daily routines, from administering treatments to ensuring comfort during sleepless nights. She also taught them to recognize subtle changes in Mr. Otieno’s condition: the slight confusion after medication, the decreased appetite, the growing fatigue, and the moments when he could no longer participate in conversations. These were gentle signs that he was entering the final stages of life and needed more love and care not just for healing but comfort.
The family learned to balance their roles. While Esther handled medical needs, they focused on emotional presence—holding his hand, sharing memories, reading aloud his favorite poems, and simply being there. They understood that sometimes, the most valuable care is not a pill or a procedure, but a familiar voice and a warm embrace.
Esther emphasized awareness of key signs that may indicate a patient is approaching the end of life:
- Increased sleepiness and withdrawal from conversation and daily activities.
- Changes in breathing patterns, including pauses or shallow breaths.
- Loss of appetite and difficulty swallowing.
- Cool extremities and mottled skin, indicating reduced circulation.
- Moments of confusion or restlessness, often signaling discomfort or internal changes.
Recognizing these signs allowed the family to cherish each remaining moment with Mr. Otieno, making him feel loved and secure. The nurse and the family worked as a team: one providing professional care, the other offering emotional support.
In the end, it was this balance—expert care guided by compassion, and professional oversight complemented by family love—that ensured Mr. Otieno’s final days were peaceful and dignified.
Lesson for Families: Being present is as important as medical care. Learn the signs, communicate openly with your home nurse, and don’t postpone moments of love. Sometimes, a phone call, a touch, or simply sitting together can mean more than any treatment.
Do you need a nurse to support your loved one in Uganda? Please call +256 779143700 to receive personalized advise and care