Why do nurses check under a dying patient's sheets when measuring blood pressure?

When nurses check under a dying patient's sheets while measuring blood pressure, it is primarily to assess for signs of imminent death. This practice is important because certain physical changes can indicate that death is approaching, such as skin color changes, coolness of extremities, or abnormal positioning. These signs provide critical information regarding the patient's condition and can alert the healthcare provider to impending changes that may require intervention or the need for support for the patient and their family.

The focus during this time is on monitoring for and identifying specific signs that could indicate the last stages of life, enabling nurses to provide appropriate care and support. This action is guided by the understanding that patients nearing death often experience various physiological changes that can be observed through physical assessment, making it a significant part of palliative care.