The palliative care nurse's role in supporting the adolescent child of a dying patient

The aim of this article was to critically evaluate the author's role as a hospital-based palliative care nurse in supporting the adolescent child of a dying parent. The approach taken and the resources that were available have been reflected upon. The article explores whether it was possible to adapt the theory of bereavement support for those working with adults within the constraints of a busy acute hospital. It was found that although there were limitations to the amount of support the author could give within her role, there remains a window of opportunity for all healthcare professionals within this field to support parents in preparing their children for bereavement.