Client death and funerals

[SandBetweenMyToes, BSN, RN]

I'm new to home health and was wondering about when a client you have come to know, (and a family you have bonded with) passes. Do you ever go to the funeral or send a card to the family? I had my first palliative client pass away recently that I had come to know her and her family. I did not go to the funeral because I thought it might be a invasion of their privacy or a professional boundary issue, but I did send a card. What has been your experience? Thanks...still trying to feel my way through this specialty called home health. :heartbeat

[HmarieD]

I have attended a number of funerals and have always been welcomed with open arms. Most people seem especially touched that you care enough to go. Often in the last days or weeks of life we have more contact with the patient and their immediate family than anyone else. I have almost without fail been proudly and lovingly introduced to all present as "Mom's (or Dad, etc) nurse, she took such good care of her." It's a very special and touching experience, I would encourage you to go if you have become close. Their feelings may even be hurt if you don't attend.

[annaedRN, RN]

I have a few times sent a card or stopped in at the viewing but have not attended a funeral. Most times I do not do anything. It's hard at times not to let yourself get close... but ultimately -the day I stop caring is the day I will start looking to do something else.