Grief and Loss During Care Transitions: Experiences of Direct Care Workers

Direct Care Workers (DCW) provide both personal care to patients and emotional support caregivers in hospice palliative care. DCWs often develop close ties are then expected work with new clients immediately following a transition, little or no time grieve. A qualitative pilot study (n = 24) was conducted explore the experience of during transitions. Data collected via focus groups individual interviews. Thematic analysis used. Results suggest managed their experiences 19), by anticipating accepting grief loss 21), employing coping strategies saying good-bye 15). Relational factors impacted transitions 22), including building maintaining relationship 14), strength perceived connections Increased organizational training help address will better direct workforce.