FAST FACTS AND CONCEPT #77: Telephone Notification of Death: Part 2

2nd Edition

Authors: Rosalia R. Osias, MD, Daniel H. Pomerantz, MD, Jeffrey M. Brensilver, MD, FACP

In Telephone Notification Part 1 (Fast Fact #76), the basic steps and precautions were outlined.

One issue not previously discussed is the dilemma of providing telephone information versus asking family members to first come to hospital and then tell them that death has occurred. Few would disagree that it is always preferable to present death notification in person. However, when families live at a great distance, or are physically unable to travel, telephone discussion will be necessary. In other situations, clinicians must weigh the benefits of truthfulness against the risk of potential harm resulting from abrupt disclosure of the bad news. Factors to consider in making this decision include:

• Whether death was expected or not; the nature and chronicity of the illness
• How well the death notifier knows the patient and the patient’s family;
• The relationship of the contact person to the patient
• The anticipated emotional reaction of the contact person based on prior information
• Whether the contact person will be alone when receiving the information
• The contact person's level of understanding
• Distance, availability of transport, and time of day

For example, when death is expected due to progressive cancer and the notifier knows both the patient and the contact person, telephone notification is very acceptable. In fact, you should have prepared for this moment ahead of time by asking the contact how they wish to be contacted at the time of death. In contrast, if the death is sudden, especially of a minor, notification in person is always preferred, although time and distance issues may make it impractical.

The notifier must be prepared to quickly integrate all these factors to decide whether to reveal that the patient is dead, or whether to describe the patient as gravely ill and request that the contact person come to the hospital immediately. If you decide to delay disclosure of the death, be prepared to make immediate admission of such nondisclosure as soon as you meet the family (e.g. I'm sorry for not telling you the whole thing right away over the phone; then give your reason for doing so).

Responding to Emotions

Whether in person or by telephone, you should expect an emotional reaction to the death notification (see Fast Fact #29-Responding to Patient Emotions). Responding to emotions via telephone is especially difficult. Some tips include:

• Ensure that the contact has someone else with them; offer to contact family members, friends, clergy or others.
• Offer to meet with the contact in person.
• Contact your hospital social worker for advice on contacting other local resources such as the Red Cross, local police, or other service agencies.

References:

1. Iserson, KV. The Gravest Words: Sudden-Death Notification and Emergency Care. Ann of Emerg Med 2000: 36:75-77.
2. Iserson, KV. The Gravest Words: Notifying Survivors about Sudden, Unexpected Deaths. Resident and Staff Physician. 2001: 47:66-72.

Fast Facts are edited by David E. Weissman, MD; Palliative Care Center, Medical College of Wisconsin. For comments/questions write to: dweissma@mcw.edu. The complete set of Fast Facts are available at EPERC: www.eperc.mcw.edu

Copyright and Referencing Information: Users are free to download and distribute Fast Facts for educational purposes only. Citation for referencing. Osias, RR, Pomerantz DH and Brensilver JH. Fast Facts and Concepts #76 Telephone Notification of Death Part 2, 2nd Edition. July 2006. End-of-Life/Palliative Education Resource Center www.eperc.mcw.edu.

Disclaimer: Fast Facts provide educational information, this information is not medical advice. Health care providers should exercise their own independent clinical judgment. Some Fast Fact information cites the use of a product in dosage, for an indication, or in a manner other than that recommended in the product labeling. Accordingly, the official prescribing information should be consulted before any such product is used.

Creation Date: 10/2002

Purpose: Instructional Aid, Self-Study Guide, Teaching

Audience(s)

ACGME Competencies: Interpersonal and Communication Skills, Patient Care

Keyword(s): communication