nothing to add without further information. Talk to the N/H Dr and depending on her condition in general decide if you want her to be put through investigations at this point. It does sound as though she may be transitioning into the pre death phase of dying. Do you know what her final wishes are and does she have a DNR. Ant tests that are should be questioned as to whether they are going to improve her quality of life rather than being done because they are the usual tests for this condition. Hospice evaluation would be very helpful but educate yourself as much as possible so you are in a position to make wise decisions in her best interests.
Agree with GA (as usual!). This could be pneumonia or a host of other conditions. Speech therapist needs to evaluate. Also, has anyone checked for an impacted esophogus? Who recommended pureed food? Was it speech person or just an assumption by nursing staff or doctor? Does she have other impairments?
Did swallowing difficulty develop after the stroke, and if so did she receive speech therapy? Is she getting speech therapy now at the nursing home?
What's the reason for the congestion? Has she seen a pulmonary specialist?
If she's having difficulty eating and swallowing, she may instinctively eat less. If she has a lot of congestion, she may be in CHF or have pneumonia. If an x-ray hasn't been taken of her lungs, you might want to ask wny not.
It's hard to say if this is a sign of approaching death because these conditions can be treated. More information is required.
It appears that hospice should be contacted at this point. The social worker at the NH or nurse manager can coordinate this with you. Her symptoms are similar to what my mother had been experiencing during the last weeks of her life. I was my mother's only advocate and the hospice nurses were amazing and helpful. Hope you can get some help for your mom. Take care.
What's the reason for the congestion? Has she seen a pulmonary specialist?
If she's having difficulty eating and swallowing, she may instinctively eat less. If she has a lot of congestion, she may be in CHF or have pneumonia. If an x-ray hasn't been taken of her lungs, you might want to ask wny not.
It's hard to say if this is a sign of approaching death because these conditions can be treated. More information is required.