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Updated: May 29, 2026
04:36
Setup and Execution of the Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice Death Notification Curriculum
Published on: August 5, 2020
Death, dying and near death experience
A R Singh1, V N Bagadia, P V Pradhan
1Senior Research Fellow, W.H.O. Collaborating Center in psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, K.E.M. Hospital, Bombay.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry
|September 20, 2011
Summary
This study explores the psychological impact of acute medical emergencies. Discreet psychological exploration is feasible and necessary for patients facing life-threatening illness and survivors, offering insights into terminality awareness and care needs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Thanatology
- Acute Medicine
Background:
- Psychological research on death predominantly focuses on prolonged illnesses like cancer.
- Acute medical emergencies represent an under-researched area regarding psychological impact.
- Existing research lacks focus on the psychological state of patients during and after life-threatening acute events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the psychological state of patients experiencing acute, life-threatening medical illnesses.
- To assess the psychological state of patients who have survived acute medical emergencies.
- To explore the feasibility and necessity of psychological assessment in acute death situations.
Main Methods:
- An open pilot study involving 25 patients divided into two groups: Group A (10 patients during acute illness) and Group B (15 survivors).
- Discreet interview techniques were employed to explore psychological states, terminality awareness, and care expectations.
- The study also addressed the required interviewer abilities and potential psychological impacts on patients and interviewers.
Main Results:
- Psychological exploration during acute medical emergencies is both possible and necessary when conducted discreetly.
- Patients' awareness of terminality, psychological disturbances, and expected care were identified.
- Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) were reported by some patients who acknowledged their occurrence.
Conclusions:
- Thanatological research in acute medical death situations requires specific interviewer skills and careful methodology.
- Psychological exploration can be integrated into the care of patients with acute life-threatening illnesses.
- The study highlights the importance of addressing the psychological dimensions of sudden, critical medical events.
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