Bereavement Support
Many deaths occurring on the critical care unit may be classed as unexpected or sudden. Relatives may not have had sufficient time to prepare for the death because they may have lived with the hope of recovery. Sudden death is well documented as the most difficult life event to cope with, in both the short and long term. Support offered to relatives before and after the death of their relative can help with intense grief.
How Do We Help?
Our Bereavement Support Service was instigated to provide continuity of care to bereaved relatives, giving them the opportunity to have any questions or problems addressed. The service aims to enhance our knowledge by obtaining feedback allowing for changes in practice where necessary to improve the care of the dying patient.
All next of kin of those patients that die in the Critical Care Unit will receive a card approximately one month after the death of their relative. The card will contain information and a contact number that may be called when support is needed. Experienced staff are available to offer bereavement support; however, if formal counselling is required this can be arranged either via the relative’s general practitioner or an outside agency, for example Cruse.
All next of kin of the deceased are sent an invitation to one of our biannual memorial services. We began these non-denominational services in 2004 and all have been well attended. Feedback has shown us that they are beneficial and comforting to those that attend.
The Critical Care Unit also has a Memorial Book, soon to have a permanent home in the Chapel. A picture and a few words can be entered by family as a lasting memorial to their loved one.
Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Arrowe Park Hospital, Arrowe Park Road, Upton, Wirral, Merseyside CH49 5PE
Switchboard: (0151) 678 5111