NODA Background

"No one is born alone, so no one should have to die alone."

The No One Dies Alone (NODA) program was first developed and implemented at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Eugene, Oregon in 2001 by a nurse whose patient passed away alone. NODA is now a nationally known program.

Mission Statement

To provide patients who are actively dying with compassionate and comforting care so the patient can have a dignified death.

Goals and Objectives

• To provide compassionate and comforting care to patients who are dying alone.
• To support patients who are dying by giving them a dignified and meaningful death.

Patient Criteria for NODA Vigil

• Patient is receiving comfort care.
• Patient has DNR status.
• Patient is likely to transition in 48-72 hours.
• Patient has no family or friends available for a vigil.

Compassionate Companion Volunteer Tips

• Always focus on the patient and his/her needs and wishes first.
• Provide a comforting presence without aiding in direct patient care.
• Demonstrate gentleness, friendliness, and kindness.
• Hold the patient's hand, read, pray, play calming music.
• Be present and attentive to the patient.
• Be sensitive to patient's cultural and spiritual needs and transitions.
• Be courteous to staff.

Ethics of NODA

One of the values at Union Hospital is integrity, meaning to be honest and ethical. Following Union Health's hospital policies and procedures is essential to ethically serve patients who are dying. Providing end-of-life comfort to patients who are dying includes implementing and following ethical principles that are in place.

Ethical Principles and Qualities of No One Dies Alone

Beneficence - to "do good"

• Always act in a manner that best serves our patients.
• Provide the benefit of a dignified death.
• Commit to providing compassionate and comforting care to our patients.

Nonmaleficence - to do no harm

• Provide patients who are dying with a dignified death.
• Commit to providing a non-sufferable death.

Justice - fairness

• Provide all patients with the opportunity to die with others present.
• Commit to providing compassionate end-of-life comfort to all patients.

Fidelity - trust

• Always do what you say you will do.
• Adhere to policies and procedures in place.
• Commit and respect our patients' values.
• Communicate appropriately with staff.

Directions to become a NODA Compassionate Companion

1. Complete the online volunteer application - indicate NODA
2. NODA phone coordinator will contact you for an interview and provide information about becoming a Compassionate Companion volunteer.
3. Attend two training sessions.

Already a volunteer for NODA?

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