ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to clarify the effects on the grieving process of bereaved families, and to investigate what visiting nurses should do to provide support. Twelve cases in which nurses from our station provided home care in 1998 were analyzed with regard to the grieving state of the families, the families' physical conditions, social situations, and support systems. The results showed that the number of carers during the patient's period of illness, the support system, and level of communication with medical providers affected the grieving process. To minimize the load on the grieving family and help them achieve closure at an early stage, it is necessary to begin developing care ability and preparing a support system during the period of home treatment. Sufficient emotional care must also be provided for the family, including education in preparing for death. The families lean heavily on medical staff for this, and building a good relationship is therefore vital.
