Development of the Bereavement Risk Inventory and Screening Questionnaire (BRISQ): Item generation and expert panel feedback

Abstract

Objectives Following the loss of a loved one to cancer, a significant subset of bereaved family members are at heightened risk for mental and physical health problems; however, often these family members “fall through the cracks” in the healthcare system. A brief, clinically useful self-report bereavement risk screening tool could facilitate more effective identification of family members in need of psychosocial support before and after a cancer loss. Thus, the purpose of this study was to develop and refine the Bereavement Risk Inventory and Screening Questionnaire (BRISQ), a self-report bereavement screening tool, and to assess its utility using feedback from bereavement experts. Methods Quantitative and qualitative feedback from a panel of 15 clinical and research experts in bereavement was obtained through an online survey to identify the most clinically useful items and understand expert opinion on bereavement screening. Results The qualitative and quantitative feedback was synthesized, resulting in a 22% reduction of the item pool. While there was a general consensus between experts on the most clinically useful risk factors for bereavement-related mental health challenges and on the utility of screening, they also offered feedback on language and formatting that guided substantial revisions to the BRISQ. Significance of Results These findings were used to refine the BRISQ in preparation for a second study to obtain family member feedback on the measure. By incorporating both expert and family member feedback, the intention is to create a screening tool that represents top clinical and research knowledge in bereavement in a way that effectively addresses barriers to care.

Bereavement Follow‐Up After the Death of a Child as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology

“…There is also a need for screening to identify those in greatest need . Existing bereavement needs assessments have been described as insufficient, but efforts to develop a more valid, reliable screening tool are underway . Once identified, family members may benefit from interventions designed to prevent or reduce debilitating prolonged grief symptoms …”

Can a single question about family members’ sense of security during palliative care predict their well-being during bereavement? A longitudinal study during ongoing care and one year after the patient’s death

“…Moreover, instruments to identify family members at risk for developing bereavement-related mental health challenges pre- or post-loss have been developed (e.g. Family Relationships Index (FRI) [ 40 ] and the Bereavement Risk Inventory and Screening Questionnaire (BRISQ)) [ 37 ], and pre-loss screening as well as interventions initiated pre-loss have been advocated to facilitate caregivers’ return to normal life as soon and as effectively as possible [ 41 , 42 ]. To our knowledge, no study with a quantitative design has previously focused on sense of security as a possible pre-loss resilient factor during the delivery of the patient care.…”

Family members' opinions about bereavement care after cardiac intensive care unit patients' deaths

“…This component, although not needed by most in our sample, could still be a potential help to some families. Perhaps ICUs could use a risk assessment tool to identify those most at need of a follow‐up call …”

“…The other components had mixed responses. Because of this, ICUs may need to tailor bereavement support by screening families for bereavement risk . In addition, ICUs must consider allocating resources for bereavement services and appropriate staff training when developing and implementing any of the bereavement components.…”