Simple and powerful: a consultant and governance-led bereavement service.
Autor: Grimes, Caris E.; Stringer, Belinda; Roberts-Jones, Linda
Publication year: 2020
BMJ supportive & palliative care
issn:2045-4368 2045-435X
doi: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-001661
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Following bereavement, families can be left with unanswered questions or issues of concern. We piloted a bereavement service model which was consultant and governance-led with the aim to reduce complaints, reduce litigation, reduce coroners’ inquests and support families. METHODS: Following the death of a patient, the next of kin was sent an invitation. Those that responded were offered a 1-hour appointment with a consultant, senior sister and a member of the governance team. Notes were taken to track themes and feedback sheets were introduced to gauge the usefulness of the service to families. RESULTS: Of 121 invitations sent out, 18 families (14.8%) used the service. Two families had already sought legal advice. Neither acted further. 44% said they would have made a complaint if the service had not been available. 78% stated that they had obtained closure. CONCLUSION: A bereavement service model which is consultant and governance led may reduce complaints and reduce litigation.
Language: eng
Rights: © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2020. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.
Pmid: 30665881
Tags: Humans; Pilot Projects; *Referral and Consultation; *Bereavement; Program Evaluation; Family/*psychology; bereavement; death; Professional-Family Relations; Consultants; complaints; Coroners and Medical Examiners; Hospice Care/*methods; litigation; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology/*statistics & numerical data
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30665881/
