Emotional support for families and carers

Be sensitive to the need for family members and carers to express their emotions after a patient has died, and facilitate this appropriately.

Family members and carers may express their emotions overtly or sit in silence. Some may wish to wash and dress the body with or without the support and direction of a healthcare professional.

Acknowledge the care that the family and carers gave, and the value it had for the patient. At times, providing a calm, quiet and supportive presence may be most helpful. For more information about grief and bereavement care, including resources for family and carers, see Loss, grief and bereavement.