Rinat Nissim, PhD

Quality of Death in Hospital and Grief Outcomes in the COVID-19 Era

Study Status: Active

Study Purpose: This study is looking to understand the quality of death and grief outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic from the point of view of families who lost loved ones in hospital. The study is also looking at the support needs of caregivers before and after the death of a loved one. The goal of this study is to improve end of life care for patients in the hospital and improve grief support for families.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how people experience the end of life and cope with grief. Hospitals, where many Canadians die, were facing challenges to make sure patients and families are at the center of care because of visitor restrictions, slowed admissions, and an overwhelmed healthcare system. These changes, plus social restrictions and restrictions on funeral options during the pandemic, could change the quality of death and grief outcomes.

Study Methods: The study is introduced to family members, at least 6 months after the patient’s death, through a letter and phone call. Family members are asked to complete questionnaires and some are asked to participate in an interview. This mixed-method approach allows our team to better understand the quality of dying and grief outcomes.

Health Conditions: Mental Health (depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.)