What causes the death rattle in elderly before they pass away?

Dolly

I've been working as a CNA for the past three years, and I noticed that people tend to get this rattle in their chest as they get close to death. My best guess is its fluid build up from heart failure, but really I have no clue. Anyone know why?

Diane B · 02-07-2009, 05:42 PM

you are absolutely correct, plus usually they are unable to clear their chest with a cough, so the bronchial tubes are also affected. You do wonderful work as a CNA. I did it for two years then went to nursing school and was a nurse for almost 30 years.

Aunt Sera · 02-09-2009, 10:41 PM

Yes, it's due to fluid buildup in the lungs. Bless you CNA. You guys perform some of the most difficult and most thankless work of all in the healthcare system. Thank you.

03-01-2009, 10:37 PM

yes, what everyone else said. That is what we were also told about my sister who pass last month...She also had that. Sad to watch. Thanks for doing what you do too.

03-24-2009, 03:51 AM

It is a fluid build up, but not from CHF. As death looms closer, their level of consciousness decreases, and they stop bringing up secretions. These secretions settle in the lungs and cause the rhonchi.