A Mixed‐Methods Exploration of Staff Needs for Coping With Grief and Loss in Residential Aged Care

ABSTRACT

Aims

To examine residential aged care staff's experience of death and grief, and their support needs.

Methods

A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, using an online cross-sectional survey that included the Texas Revised Inventory of Grief and the Grief Support in Health Care Scale. Followed by semi-structured interviews with direct care workers and managers working in residential aged care homes were conducted.

Results

Over 60% of participants experienced five or more resident deaths in the previous 12 months. Although, different levels of grief were experienced among different roles, the importance of open communication and opportunities for farewells after resident death was highlighted. Participants suggested support and education to normalise grief and promote self-care.

Conclusion

Recognising staff grief following the resident death is important. Providing support and education may help improve staff wellbeing and contribute to the delivery of high-quality care for both residents and their families.

Implication for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Staff grief after a resident death needs to be recognised, and continuing education and support are required for their wellbeing.

Reporting Method

The STROBE and SRQR checklists were applied.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public contribution.