Cardiothoracic and Vascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU, Ward 48)

Bereavement Follow-up Services

The CVICU Bereavement Team is available to provide follow-up support to persons who have experienced the death of a family member  in  CVICU. 

Team members who are from the nursing staff and who have undergone appropriate training, contact the family members by telephone and in writing approximately four weeks after the death of their family member. At this time relatives are able to receive information, and have any questions or concerns addressed. 

The nurse is able to answer certain questions, and where appropriate refer questions to the appropriate medical staff. Family meetings can be also be arranged whereby family members can meet and discuss their concerns with the appropriate health professionals. 

The Bereavement Team is managed by two Coordinators who are supported by a dedicated team of nurses who provide Bereavement Follow-up Support to family members who have experienced the death of a family member in the CVICU. 

Bereavement Team Members include RNs, Clinical Nurse Educators, Clinical Nurse Coordinators, and Clinical Nurse Specialists. All new members are required to undergo relevant training which is provided in staff workshops. Membership is open to all interested staff members. 

More details on our activities and or follow up research can be obtained writing to the Bereavement Services Coordinators CVICU.