Elizabeth K�bler-Ross' book On Death and Dying helped to popularize a characterization of the process of grief as steps or stages through which the dying and, to some extent, those close to them ordinarily pass. While she was hardly the originator of the idea, her book has provided access to this useful tool for thousands of health care professionals. Used carefully, these stages can be helpful in recognizing and responding to the psychological state and needs of those in grief.
denial of death because they are unable to admit to themselves that the patient might die and/or they will suffer the loss death represents;
anger by which the pain of loss is projected onto others;
bargaining which represents a last effort at overcoming death by "earning" longer life;
depression when the full impact of imminent death strikes them; and
acceptance when the grieving come to grips with the fact of the patient's death and make preparation for it.
