The Liverpool Care Pathway for the Dying Patient (LCP) is a plan of care for a patient when the doctors and nurses looking after a patient believe that this person is dying and may now have hours or days to live. The focus of care now changes to that of care of the dying. The dying process is unique to each person. In most cases, a plan of best care at the end of life can be put in place to support the patient, doctors and nurses, and family. Any change in care delivery should be discussed whenever possible with the patient and family.

(Family includes nominated next of kin, informal carers and all those who matter to the patient)

The LCP as a plan of are care be used in support of care of the dying wherever the patient is being cared for. The LCP transfers best practice from the Hospice into other care settings.

"Although I was not with her when she died, I am confident that she had a peaceful death and my father was well looked after also. I loved my mum very much and will always remember that the LCP made it possible for all of us to live with her until she died and to cope afterwards, I am truly grateful"

                                                                                                                                                                            Quote from a Carer