The development of oedema when end-of-life is approaching can be distressing for patients and challenging for health professionals. Many factors are involved in the development of oedema and careful assessment to identify the cause of the oedema enables the most appropriate patient-focused goals to be identified during treatment planning. Nurse prescribers are in a unique position to consider whether a patient's medication may cause or exacerbate oedema, and, in some cases, alternative medication may be more appropriate. This article will consider the causes of oedema as a patient approaches the end-of-life and will explore different treatment strategies that can be used. Regular evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment and a focus on quality of life are essential.

Mary Woods - Nurse Consultant Lymphoedema, The Royal Marsden Hospital, Chelsea, UK