A bereavement model for the intensive care nursery

Area of Science:

• Perinatal Medicine
• Grief Counseling
• Pediatric Care

Background:

• Infant mortality in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) presents profound emotional challenges for families and healthcare providers.
• The grieving process for infant loss can be prolonged and isolating, beginning prenatally and extending years post-death.
• Caregivers face the dual burden of providing sensitive decedent care while navigating their own grief.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a specialized bereavement program developed for Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery (NICN) staff.
• To outline the program's approach to supporting families experiencing infant loss.
• To detail the program's role in assisting staff with sensitive care and long-term family follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Development of a comprehensive bereavement program within a NICN setting.
• Provision of education and support resources for NICN staff.
• Implementation of a follow-up care plan for families for up to one year post-infant death.

Main Results:

• The program aims to equip staff with the skills to provide sensitive decedent care.
• It offers ongoing support to families navigating the complex grieving process.
• The initiative addresses the unique needs of families and caregivers in the NICU environment.

Conclusions:

• A structured bereavement program is crucial for supporting families and staff after infant death in the NICU.
• Such programs facilitate sensitive care and provide essential long-term support.
• Addressing caregiver grief and family isolation is paramount in neonatal loss.