Giving injections to a dying relative or close friend

This page is for families and informal carers who would like to be trained to administer injections to ease symptoms – pain relief and other medications.

Accompanying a dying relative or friend is always difficult, and you may feel you would like to give more practical help by learning to give top-up medications. This skill allows you to help relieve symptoms more quickly than if waiting for a District Nurse to attend. It is a valuable contribution to the patient’s care and comfort.

Undertaking this training is not for everyone. You must be freely willing to do so, and not feel under any pressure. Your healthcare team must also agree that it would be suitable for you.

If you would like to be trained to administer injections for your loved one, please discuss this with your district nursing team, GP, or St Nicholas Hospice Care.

If it is agreed that this would be suitable for you, as part of the training process you will be provided with this booklet – Download here.