Emergency support team.

The motivation for implementing the Emergency Support Team was the unique situation of being the only hospital within a resort area with limited resources for supporting families in crisis. As the program developed, broader implications for the service were identified. Educational needs became more apparent and programs were instituted to orient and educate the team members. The comfort level of the volunteers increased as they developed skills in working with families in crisis. Events such as unexpected death are difficult times for families. The support given by the team member can turn a catastrophic situation into one that is remembered by the family as a compassionate experience.