After studying this chapter, you should be able to

1. Discuss accepted criteria for determining death.

2. Determine the health care professional’s role in caring for the dying.

3. Explain differences between a living will, a health care proxy, and durable power of attorney.

4. Discuss the various stages of grief.

5. Begin to form a knowledge base for assisting dying patients and their family members through the grieving process.

6. Begin forming a personal philosophy concerning death and dying.