Ercast

Delivering the news of death is one of the hardest yet most overlooked skills in emergency medicine. Many learn by watching others or through trial and error rather than structured training (or just make it up as they go). This lack of preparation can lead to discomfort, stress, avoidance, and even systemic failures in how death notifications are handled. In this episode, we explore the critical components of death communication, how to navigate these difficult conversations with clarity and compassion, and why avoiding or mishandling these moments can have lasting consequences for both providers and families. Finally, we discuss the emotional toll of secondhand grief and the importance of proactive mental health care for those on the front lines of healthcare.