As death approaches, many people will be seeking answers to life's big questions: its nature, meaning and purpose and what, if any, form it takes after death. Some may find these answers in religion, others in their own philosophy or that of others. Many nurses acknowledge the struggle to provide spiritual or religious support because they feel inadequately skilled or knowledgeable (Kissane and Yates [29]). However, assessment, even if simple, communication and onward referral will ensure that appropriate care can be given without compromising the integrity of the healthcare professional or denying the patient the opportunity to explore these central life issues.

Those with specific religious beliefs may have certain religious practices that need to be undertaken before or after death. It is important to try to discuss these with the patient, as even where relatives share a common faith there may be differences in the way each person practises. It is, as always, vital that assumptions are not made on the basis of a previously disclosed religious preference – for example, not all Catholic believers will want to be given the sacrament of the sick. Each patient and their relatives should have the opportunity to express their needs and nurses should ensure that, wherever possible, these are met. Further information about religious/cultural perspectives and practices is available (NHS Education for Scotland [39]).