Navigating Uncertainty: The Impact of COVID-19 on Families of Terminally Ill Patients

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused significant global mortality and left a substantial number of bereaved individuals in its wake while reshaping health care delivery and profoundly affecting families coping with loss. During the pandemic, public health measures and the fear of getting COVID have reshaped grieving for families, adding emotional layers and complexities. This was further compounded by bereavement challenges, including changes to gatherings that have altered social norms and limited families in honoring loved ones, causing further distressing. Purpose: To elucidate experiences of families who had a hospitalized terminally ill family member during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify themes from the existing literature that can inform clinical practice related to how health care providers care for individuals and their families during palliative care going forward. Methods: This scoping review delved into qualitative studies sourced from peer-reviewed literature found in PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases. Results: A thorough search yielded 298 articles, of which 10 were included in the present review. Four themes were identified: the importance of communication, the challenges and effects of separation from loved ones, changed rituals and bereavement, and access to services and support. Implications for Practice: The restrictions and fear imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered patient and family care dynamics, disrupting customary face-to-face visits and increasing emotional strain for families, while highlighting the necessity for personalized end-of-life care. Integrating supportive frameworks and utilizing telehealth platforms or hybrid care models will be crucial in addressing the complexities of grief and loss experienced by patients, families, and caregivers during and after the pandemic.