Whether a death is expected or sudden, it leaves a mark on people’s lives. Grief and other reactions are personal and often shaped by the circumstances leading up to the death.
After a Death
The staff of the relevant department respectfully prepares the deceased, and family members are given the opportunity for a final farewell at the bedside.
Support in Grief
Traumatic events such as the death of a loved one can cause significant emotional distress. Family members are welcome to contact the pastoral care staff, including hospital priests and deacons.
Chapels
Landspítali has 6 chapels used for the services of priests and deacons, as well as for gatherings and quiet reflection.
Hospital priests and deacons can lead farewell moments and support family members if requested, in addition to contacting a parish priest or providing further information.
Losing a Loved One
The Losing a Loved One life event guide provides useful information and guidance on what happens next. The District Commissioner also offers good information regarding death and inheritance.
A doctor examines the deceased to determine the circumstances of the death.
If the cause of death is uncertain, the doctor may request permission from the next of kin to perform an autopsy for medical purposes.
The next of kin are also entitled to request an autopsy if they have any doubts regarding the death.
A forensic autopsy is carried out if the death occurs suddenly without a known medical history or under suspicious circumstances.
The doctor who examines the deceased will issue a death certificate. Staff at Landspítali are available to provide guidance if you have any questions.
A death certificate is an official confirmation of a person’s death and must be in place before the funeral can take place.
The doctor who examines the deceased confirms the death and issues a death certificate, which is sent electronically to the relevant District Commissioner’s Office (Sýslumaður). The certificate includes information about the next of kin.
If a forensic examination or forensic autopsy is carried out, the doctor performing it will issue the death certificate.
