Creating a NICU Bereavement Team

Purpose for the program: A NICU bereavement committee was formed to maximize the potential of clinical nursing practice related to the Magnet Model.  Multiple Magnet Forces were modeled in the implementation of this project. 

Proposed change: Our project was initiated in an effort to improve clinical practice and provide family-centered care.

Implementation, outcomes and evaluation: Using evidence-based practice, our team has standardized the bereavement process in the NICU by creating a bereavement checklist, a unit-specific neonatal death policy, and educational materials for staff to reference.  We have also organized a bereavement cabinet for staff to have easy access to all supplies needed during this difficult time.  Staff was in-serviced regarding the new bereavement policies and procedures.  Bereavement team members are expected to act as resources for nurses when a neonatal death occurs. We have found increased nurse satisfaction by decreasing their anxiety during the bereavement process as evidenced by post project in-service evaluations.

Implications for nursing practice: To standardize the bereavement process and decrease nurse anxiety.

Keywords: bereavement, NICU, neonatal death, family-centered care