"I'll never forget those cold words as long as I live": parent perceptions of death notification for stillbirth

J Soc Work End Life Palliat Care. 2012;8(4):339-55. doi: 10.1080/15524256.2012.732022.

Abstract

This qualitative study analyzed stillbirth notification messages recalled by parents who strongly agreed (n = 47) and strongly disagreed (n = 43) that the way news about the death of their infant was delivered negatively impacted their grieving process. Three message elements formed a core stillbirth notification experience (delay of news delivery; expression of sympathy; communication of death), and three additional message elements occurred in both data sets (communication regarding options; expression of uncertainty; exit of health care provider); however, the messages differed in form and frequency between the two groups. Three message elements reflected opposing experiences for the two groups (support of parent emotion; continuity of care; and information provision). Recommendations for stillbirth notification that emphasize acknowledging parent perceptions, clear language and information, empathetic communication, and continuity of care are given.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anecdotes as Topic
  • Bereavement*
  • Counseling / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Parent-Child Relations
  • Parental Notification*
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Professional-Family Relations*
  • Stillbirth / psychology*
  • Young Adult