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Confirm the death with the appropriate professional
Who you contact first depends on where and how the death occurred.
- If the person died in a hospital, hospice, nursing home, or other care facility, staff will usually guide you through immediate procedures.
- If the person died at home while under hospice care, contact the hospice nurse or on-call provider.
- If the death was unexpected or the person was not under medical care, call emergency services or the appropriate local authority.
- Do not move the person or disturb the scene if authorities need to respond.
Helpful Questions
- Who is the primary contact at the facility or agency?
- Has a physician or medical examiner been notified?
- Who can help communicate updates to family members?