those close to the patient
those close to the patient
A UK term of art used in the context of terminal (end-of-life) care, which refers to any of the following people: a professional or other carer, a partner, a close family member or friend, an informal advocate, or other person who remains closeby as the patient nears his or her end of life.Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.