The steps you must take after a death depend on where it happens and whether the death was expected or under hospice care.
Many people assume the same steps apply in every situation, or that calling 911 is always the correct first move. Others believe hospitals, hospice providers, and funeral homes all follow the same process.
A hospital death is handled internally: staff pronounce death and guide next steps.
A death at home under hospice care requires calling the hospice nurse—not 911.
A death at home without hospice usually requires calling 911 by law.
The first call determines whether police, coroners, or emergency responders become involved.
Calling the wrong person can:
Trigger unwanted resuscitation attempts.
Bring police into situations where they are not needed.
Create delays and additional stress during an already overwhelming moment.
Knowing which path applies helps families act calmly and avoid unnecessary complications.
If hospice is involved, keep their 24/7 number accessible.
If no hospice is present and the death is unexpected, call 911.
If the death occurs in a hospital, follow staff instructions.
When unsure, pause and confirm the situation before making the first call.
Backward | Index | Forward