Following this course:

Learners will be able to describe what we, as nurses, are able to offer our bereaved families in the way of comfort, support services, and legacy items. This includes being able to identify what legacy items are available as well as describe how to create and compile these items.

Learners will be able to discuss the mental and emotional impact a patient death can have on themselves and their peers and will be able to identify the support and services available to them, as well as how to best serve as a support person for their peers experiencing a patient death.

Learners will understand how to perform post-mortem care and be able to detail the varying preparation components and requirements for each of the autopsy types performed (if elected).

Learners will be able to describe the dying process of a neonate, including expected physical and vital sign changes and will have a better understanding of how to describe this process to patient families.

Learners will understand and be able to detail all of the legal documentation, charting, and forms required to be completed when a patient dies in the NICU.

Learners will understand their role as an advocate, and sometimes mediator, for the patient and family before, during, and after a patient has died or when redirection is being discussed as a care direction option.

Learners will be able to identify more appropriate and effective ways to communicate with bereaved families before, during, and after the dying process, including word choice, discussion to avoid, and providing comfort..