Viewing the deceased. Most families wish to view or hold the deceased and this can facilitate the grieving process. If they do not wish to, this should be accepted. 7,13 Medical or nursing staff should spend time preparing the family, especially if the body has been mutilated or if medical apparatus has been left in place for postmortem examination. Staff should remain discreetly to answer questions before withdrawing.
Some family members are at greater risk of severe grief reaction, or even suicide, than others.
Relatives at high risk of experiencing a severe grief reaction should be encouraged to have a friend or relative stay for 1-2 days. Relatives openly expressing suicidal intent, or even psychotic reactions, may require urgent psychiatric intervention. The family should be informed if a postmortem examination is needed. In Australia, coroner's department counselling services can be of assistance. The services of a funeral director need to be engaged and the deceased's personal property handed over to relatives.