Supporting Emergency Room Families During End-of-Life Care

When someone dies in a hospital emergency department, their family members are at high risk for prolonged grief and trauma symptoms. This study is testing whether a structured support program—including clear information about end-of-life care, opportunities to be present with their loved one, and planned conversations with the medical team—can help families cope better emotionally in the months after their loss.

Research shows that up to half of families experience serious grief or trauma symptoms after losing a loved one in the hospital. In intensive care units, simple interventions like information, presence, and communication have been shown to reduce these symptoms. This trial exists to see whether these same supportive strategies work in the emergency department, where families often have less time and preparation.