What it means
Bereavement is the state of having lost someone; grief is the feelings it brings, and mourning is how grief is shown, often shaped by culture and religion. Many hospices offer bereavement support to families for about a year after a death.
For the nurse
Offer presence and listening rather than advice, respect cultural and religious practices around death, and watch for grief that does not ease or that comes with thoughts of self-harm.
At a glance
| Spanish | duelo |
|---|---|
| Also written | bereaved |
Related terms
caregiver
A person who looks after someone who needs help, such as a family member, friend or paid helper.
palliative
Describing care that eases symptoms and improves comfort and quality of life rather than curing the disease.