Skin changes

The colour and temperature of the skin may change as they get closer to death. Skin can cool, it can become pale or have a blue tinge especially in the fingers, toes and lips. Sometimes there maybe swelling in the hands and feet but this is not usually painful to the person.

What can you do?

• You may want to use gloves and socks on their hands and feet.
• Keeping the person covered with light weight blankets or a duvet to keep them comfortable.
• Check for signs of pressure areas on skin when the person has been in bed and use appropriate measures such as pressure mattresses, careful moving and handling, keeping the skin clean and dry, avoid skin contact with tubing or objects which could increase the risk of skin breakdown or infection.