Developing a bereavement program in the newborn intensive care unit

Abstract

The mortality rate for newborns in the United States is 4.56 per 1000 live births. Newborn intensive care unit staff is an integral part in helping families deal with bereavement over the loss of their child. This article describes how one newborn intensive care unit worked through the process to develop a comprehensive program to help families in their time of grief. On the basis of personal experiences shared by families and staff, the current practice was updated. Presented also will be 2 case studies and photos of the bereavement materials used.