Hospice and Palliative Care

Biography

Biography: Pushparanee Somasundram

Abstract

Scant literature has been published in Singapore on the various end of life cultural practices. A few examples are illustrated. No touching of the body after the last breath for 8 hours: Mr C a Tibetan Buddhist with terminal cancer of the colon; was keen to have Buddhist rituals given to him prior to and after his death. Just before his demise, Monks performed rituals and holy chants. Relatives refrained from crying as it may hinder a happy rebirth. They also placed holy garments on the patient before death.At his death, the family carried on their vigil and prayers by placing Buddhist pictures and their meditation beads in his hands. Tibetan Buddhists believe the soul is still around in the body until 8 hours after death.Last words heard must be Holy: Mr A was a Muslim engineer dying from liver failure.  His sister was not able to read the Muslim Yassin as she was “unclean during her menses". Our Muslim staff read the Yassin, and he passed away peacefully. His sister was satisfied that the brother had heard the Holy Quran just before his last breath as listening to Sura Yaseen  will ensure that  he will die a martyr. Rice, milk and Ganges water gave prior to death.: Mdm S had been on intubation for months. As her BP started to decline and the doctors pronounced she was gravely ill the family asked permission toplay holy music and placed some Ganges water on to her lips. Each family member gave her one teaspoon of milk along with a few grains of rice at her lips. Doing these rituals will help her reach “MOKSHA “or salvation.Conclusion: Being culturally aware of these customs and practices in a multicultural society like Singapore is essential  in ensuring a “Good Death”.