Good grieving--an intervention program for grieving children

Abstract

Purpose/objectives: To describe a program for grieving children including the agenda, activities, and logistics of organizing the program.

Data sources: Clinical observations and evaluations from the program; literature review.

Data synthesis: A series of four seasonal programs were designed to promote a child's normal grieving process and enhance adjustment to the loss. Programs are cyclic, children are grouped by age, and activities are intended to promote expression of feelings, understanding of the loss, and good coping skills. A concurrent program for caregivers facilitates family communication and support.

Conclusions: The program demonstrated positive behavioral changes in grieving children and provides a model for other nurses to use in organizing similar programs.

Implications for nursing practice: Nurses should be familiar with key elements of children's grief and incorporate this into their practice, especially when caring for terminally ill patients who have children.