How do you cope with death?

[Katiekins1010]

I am a nursing student at Fitchburg State, and i have a research paper to do. we had to pick a subculture, so i picked nursing. And i need to answer a question that i must research. My question is how do you, as nurses, cope with death? How do you get passed people/patients dying? If you could give me a few answers, that would be great! Thank You,

Katiekins1010:cool:

[chris_at_lucas_RN, RN]

I don't "get past" someone dying, I experience the process with them and their family. Doesn't mean I necessarily get right in there, especially if it is not helpful, but I remain available, I don't avoid the patient or the family member, and I make sure that whatever I can do within limits that do not interfere with the patient's and family's beliefs and needs, gets done.

How I see death has changed, and with my beliefs changing, my outward attitude has also changed. Now it isn't a matter of sadness, it's a matter of fact. When we are born, we have no idea what lies ahead. I figure, dying is the same kind of deal. We don't know what lies beyond, we have some ideas. Since I'm enjoying my life quite a bit, I figure what comes next has potential as well.

In a sense, I guess I silently wish the person safe passage--some would say that's prayer, and I agree.

Good question.

[elanurse]

Hi,

I am sitting here reading all the replies to the death/dying question. I appreciate all of you sharing your thoughts on this, as I am a nursing student who is entering pre-grad next semester.

Death is one of the areas I am a little nervous about as I am a sensitive person, (cry easily at sad tv shows etc:rolleyes: ). I am a little worried about how I will be able to handle the first client I have who is dying and more so how I will be able to help their family during their grieving.

Anyway, it is good to share these types of thoughts.........it helps so many of us rookies!!! Thanks:)