Introduction to the Operating Room
LESSON 2: Operating Room Personnel, Policies, and Nomenclature
2-27
2-27. HELPING THE BEREAVED
a. One central question concerns the expression of feelings. Most people can express some of their feelings, but still deny and repress others. Some will recoil from any strong feelings. After the initial period of shock, these feelings will have to be expressed or the person's well being may be gravely compromised.
b. Frequently, it may be important to consider whether the person feels adequate to face life and go on, whether he feels valuable or worthless, or whether he is optimistic or pessimistic about the future. If he feels that things will work out and that he is a person of value who is adequate in dealing with life, he is more likely to be able to abandon himself to grief and do the work of mourning without panic. It is also important for him to see that his pain has purpose and is useful in some way.
c. The bereaved person should bear the responsibility for making decisions and choices, although he may need considerable support. Making decisions about funeral arrangements helps the bereaved to face the fact of death.
