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Sudden traumatic death: caring for the bereaved

Tricia

Trauma, Vol. 9, No. 2, 103-109 (2007)

http://tra.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/9/2/103?etoc

Department of Academic Emergency Medicine, The Cook University

Hospital, Middlesbrough, TS4 3BW,tricia.scott@...

Supporting relatives following sudden and traumatic death is one of

the most daunting aspects of emergency care. Relatives are devastated

by the suddenness of the event, a situation often compounded by the

mutilation of the body of their loved one. Managing the practical

aspects of death pronouncement, explaining the cause of death,

performing last offices, and representing the body to relatives can

be emotionally draining for even the most experienced emergency

practitioner who is required to remain composed whilst supporting

grieving relatives through their tragedy. This article considers how

emergency personnel may effectively offer emotional presence and

support at a time when the sheer magnitude of the event annihilates

the possibility of any sense of order. The juxtaposition of

communication with caring and the impact of caring on healing should

not be underestimated. This concept will be discussed in relation to

how relatives are cared for in the emergency department.

Louis N. Molino, Sr., CET

FF/NREMT-B/FSI/EMSI

Owner and President of LNM Emergency Services Consulting Services (LNMECS)

Freelance Consultant/Trainer/Author/Journalist/Fire Protection Consultant

LNMolino@...

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