What is Extreme Unction?

"Extreme Unction is the sacrament which, through the anointing with blessed oil by the priest, and through his prayer, gives health and strength to the soul and sometimes to the body when we are in danger of death from sickness, accident, or old age.

"(a) In administering Extreme Unction the priest anoints the eyes, the ears, the nostrils, the lips, the hands, and, if convenient, the feet of the sick person. When the priest judges that there is not sufficient time for multiple anointings, he can administer this sacrament by a single anointing on the forehead.

"(b) While anointing the different senses the priest says the prayer: "Through this holy anointing, and His most tender mercy, may the Lord forgive you whatever sins you may have committed by sight." (by hearing, etc.)."

Baltimore Catechism No. 3, The Text of the Official Revised Edition 1949, by Rev. Francis J. Connell, C.SS.R., S.T.D.

When is it advisable to call the priest to visit the sick?

"It is advisable to call the priest to visit the sick in any serious illness, even though there be no apparent danger of death, as it is the duty of the priest to visit the sick and to administer to them the sacraments they need."

Baltimore Catechism No. 3, The Text of the Official Revised Edition 1949, by Rev. Francis J. Connell, C.SS.R., S.T.D.