An oncology unit's initiation of a bereavement support program

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Bereavement Support
• Family Care

Background:

• Families experiencing loss require specialized support.
• Oncology units face unique challenges in providing end-of-life care and bereavement services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a bereavement support program for families on an oncology unit.
• To outline strategies for engaging multidisciplinary teams in supporting bereaved families.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bereavement support models.
• Development of program components including bereavement cards and survivor support events.
• Creation of a staff education component.

Main Results:

• The program included bereavement cards and biannual survivor support events.
• Support programs focused on grief, coping strategies, and personal growth.
• A staff education component was integrated into the program.

Conclusions:

• Bereavement cards facilitate staff closure.
• Staff involvement and education are key to overcoming resistance and ensuring program success.
• The support program was highly rated, fostering a bond between survivors and nursing staff.