The National Archive of Grief Support Studies
The National Archive of Grief Support Studies(NAGSS) database provides bibliographical information and summaries of recent articles selected for their relevance to grief and bereavement service providers. The articles that are summarized are selected from scholarly, peer-reviewed journals and are intended to highlight key concepts as well as provide a brief statement of implications for service providers. Bibliographical information may be used to obtain the original article.
Bereavement Support in an Acute Hospital: An Irish Model
Authors:
Walsh, T.
Foreman, M.
Curry, P.
O’Driscoll, S.
McCormack, M.
Source:
Death Studies: 2008. Volume 32, pp. 768-786.
Summary
This article summarizes a study that provided baseline information regarding the Beaumont model of service delivery, a hospital-based bereavement care program at Beaumont Hospital, a large acute general hospital in Dublin, Ireland. The Beaumont model is a comprehensive care model that encompasses care for the dying as well as support for the families and outreach services for the community. This model incorporates not only hospital services, but also psycho-educational activities, referrals to specialists, remembrance services, and community awareness raising.
A postal survey was used to obtain feedback from individuals who, over the course of one year, had experienced the death of a loved one at the hospital. A total of 335 people responded, a 40% rate. Results revealed overwhelmingly positive responses to: postal or telephone advice and support, informational lectures, peer support programs, remembrance services, and counseling. Respondents indicated that the most helpful aspects of these services were: obtaining information and advice, being able to speak about their feelings, and being able to share their experiences. Study findings also indicated that those who used the bereavement care programs were more likely to have experienced an unexpected death, or the death of a relatively young loved one.
Key words: cognitive, complicated, Internet, prolonged, trauma, treatment
Service Provider Implications
The findings of this study suggest that a bereavement program is appreciated and used by people who have experienced the death of a loved one, especially those who have experienced an unexpected, sudden death of a loved one or whose loved one was younger.
