About This Project

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Through our research we have found that:
1. There is an absence of literature on bereavement care for families of patients who die in adult ICUs in the United States.
2. Developed countries with universal healthcare coverage have identified the need to evaluate bereavement care.
3. Death in the ICU is associated with an increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder among family members.
4. Critical care nurses lack formal end-of-life training and resources to confidently provide bereavement support.
5. Bereavement follow-up care improves patient family satisfaction.

What is the significance of this project?

There is a gap in the literature regarding current bereavement practices in the US. Bereavement services are needed to reduce effects of complicated grief. End-of-life training is needed for nursing staff. Redirecting futile life-saving measures to bereavement programs would: Increase family satisfaction Create closure for nursing staff and family

What are the goals of the project?

Are immediate goals for this project it to help stimulate further research, and development of evidence based bereavement programs in adult ICUs across the United States.