Noisy Breathing / Death Rattle Assessment
Assesses severity of noisy breathing (death rattle) due to retained secretions in dying patients and guides pharmacological management.
Score interpretation
→ Position: semi-prone or lateral; gentle oral care; reassure family; routine monitoring
→ Glycopyrronium 200mcg SC PRN or via CSCI; avoid suctioning (distressing, ineffective); explain to family: patient unlikely to be distressed despite noise
→ Glycopyrronium 600-1200mcg/24h via CSCI; consider hyoscine hydrobromide if sedation also needed; family meeting; ensure nursing presence; crisis medication available
Interpretation bands for the Death Rattle / Secretions. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Glycopyrrolate · Anticholinergic
- Glycopyrronium bromide · Antimuscarinic
- Neostigmine with glycopyrronium · Anticholinesterase + antimuscarinic
- Factor IX Concentrate · Coagulation Factor Replacement — Haemophilia B
- Beclometasone / Formoterol / Glycopyrronium · Triple Therapy ICS/LABA/LAMA — COPD
- Indacaterol / Glycopyrronium · LABA/LAMA Dual Bronchodilator — COPD
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.