Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress
CSTS | Department of Psychiatry | Uniformed Services University | 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814-4799 | www.CSTSonline.org

Notifying Families after a
COVID-19 Deathlessen the loss of a loved one, we canA large number of deaths from
Although we cannot lessen the loss
provide family members with clear,
the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)
concise, and accurate information
is expected throughout the world.
of a loved one, we can provide family
about the death, and access toMany of these deaths are likely tomembers with clear, concise, andhelpful resources, in a way that isoccur within healthcare facilities
accurate information about the death,
professionally responsible, empathic
treating the most seriously ill. The
and culturally sensitive. Theselarge number of critically ill patients,
and access to helpful resources…
actions facilitate the healing process
overwhelmed healthcare systems,
for family members. The following
and separation of patients from theirinformation
canassistwith the difficult process of death
loved ones create unique challenges when informing family
notification under these very complicated circumstances.
members when their loved one dies. Although we cannot
1. Who should notify? — This should be someone whorepresents the health care system, ideally someone
experienced in communicating difficult information tofamilies and who was involved in the patient’s hospitalcare. Because circumstances may not allow for this, it
is most important that the notifier is someone who cancalmly and clearly communicate with the family. The
task of death notification during large casualty events
is highly stressful, and those given the responsibility
require support, especially those less experienced.
2. Be prepared — Before contacting the family member,
ensure you know the name of the patient, and the nameand relationship of the family member(s) you will be
speaking with. Providing a personal context such as
knowing the patient’s age, hometown, and occupation isimportant.
3. Delivering the news — Although there is no good
way to tell a family member their loved one has died,
it is important to be clear, unambiguous and empathic.
Begin by preparing the family member (“I have verysad news to share with you”). Use simple words to share
the news (“While we were caring for your father, he died
today in our hospital from coronavirus”), while also
being empathic (“I’m so sorry for your loss”). Do notuse euphemisms for death such as “passed away” or“departed”; simply say that the loved one has died.

4. Choose which details to share — Although families
are likely to want details about their loved one’s death,carefully choose which details would be helpful for thefamily to hear. Important details may include “they werenot alone” or “they did not suffer”, but only if true. Usesimple, straightforward statements to describe thesedetails. Also, describe any last thoughts the deceased
wished to be communicated. Be cautious about sharing
complicated medical treatment information that may
overwhelm, rather than help, family members.
5. Be prepared for responses — Be prepared for a rangeof responses from family members, including sadness,rage, guilt, and blame. Simply be present with thefamily member. Don’t judge them for their feelings,
take potential accusations personally, argue, or become
defensive. Be consoling and guide them to resourcesthat are available within their communities (e.g., grief
support, logistic, administrative, pastoral). Know yourfacility’s policies for managing human remains andresources families can contact to discuss options forreceiving remains, so families can plan to mourn inways that are consistent with their culture and religion.
6. Follow up — If possible, take the opportunity to convey
the health care team’s sympathy to the family througha personal note that simply and genuinely expresses
sorrow for their loss. The family will appreciatereceiving it.