LIFE: Death-Coping in Healthcare

As a healthcare worker, we deal with life and death on a daily basis. Some areas in healthcare deal with death more than others. There is a misconception that healthcare workers do not grieve. We should be use to it, because we see it frequently. That statement cannot be further from the truth. My question to you is, how do you cope with loss? Here are 5 coping mechanisms that can assist you with dealing with death:

1. Be Vocal About Your Needs- Not everyone deals with death the same. It is OK to be vocal about your needs. Weather it's a 15min break to regroup, and/or backup to provide the dying patient adequate care during the dying process.
2. Have An Outlet- Speaking to a counselor, senior nurse, and/or love on a regular basis may be a good idea. You never get use to death, but receiving pointer from someone more experienced in this area may assist you in the coping process. It is OK to speak up and say you are uncomfortable.
3. Have a ZEN Place- A ZEN place is your little get-a-way place to reflect. This solution does not have to be expensive. Weather this is a She-shed, a special room in the house, and/or a getaway place to reflect(Ex: Hiking). This will surely allow you to regroup and deal with your feelings.
4.  Make Your Healing Unique To You- Each nurse and dying experience is unique. There is not one grand solution to coping with the dying process. Certain situations are more difficult than others (ex: Unexpected death, suicide, and/or the death of a child). There is no distinct time line for the healing process (Aieda Solomon. Retrieved July, 1, 2020 from http://healthynursehealthynation.org/the-tough-stuff-how-to-deal-with-the-death-of-a-patient). Take your time.
5.  It Is OK To Cry- Yes, I said it! There is a misconception that healthcare workers do not cry and/or grieve. Showing that you are human doesn't make you any less capable of taking care of a patient and/or family member. Crying is a stress reliever and may show that you have empathy.

* These are 5 coping strategies that are useful in healthcare. What are some coping strategies that work for you?*