Dying and denying: a process model of hospice workers' loss, grief and mourning experiences

Abstract

Most of the literature on grief has focused on loved one's experiences from which theories have been developed. Little research has been undertaken focusing on health professionals' responses to patient deaths and their experience of grief. As care of those who are dying happens more frequently in institutions such as hospices it is important to look at the impact that patient deaths has on these health professionals. The current study utilises Grounded Theory methodology to explore and develop a model that explains why and how health professionals come to grieve the death of patients. The findings indicate that health professionals do grieve and that this is often the result of developing a "connection" with a patient. The implications of grief within the hospice environment are addressed, along with the limitations of the study. Further research into the validity of this model is recommended, especially with other cultures.