Abstract
Purpose : The purpose of this study was to characterize the experiences of bereaved family members with respect to how they perceived and attached significance to nursing visits in order to identify roles played by nurses when visiting bereaved families. Methods : Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 members of bereaved families who received visits from visiting nurses, and the results were analyzed qualitatively and inductively. Results : The results revealed that bereaved families perceived the visits in seven overall aspects and found significance in them as follows: "as a reaffirmation of their ties with other people in the form of the visiting nurse," "emotional stability," "closure of the time period during which their family member received care," and "for attaining the proper mindset to face their life ahead." Discussion : This suggests that nurses who visit bereaved families help the latter sort out their feelings following bereavement by providing care so that negative feelings associated with the care period are perceived in a positive light; by providing emotional and social support in coming to terms with issues related to care, in listening with sincerity to words of appreciation, and serving as a bridge for families as they resume their lives.
