Caring for families experiencing stillbirth. Part 3 of 3: care following birth

Joanna Briggs Institute members for the University of Adelaide: Peters M, Riitano D, Lisy K, Jordan Z, Aromataris E. This report is derived from: Peters M, Riitano D, Lisy K, Jordan Z, Aromataris E. Providing care for families who have experienced stillbirth: a comprehensive systematic review. The Stillbirth Foundation Australia [Internet]. 2014. Available from: http://www.stillbirthfoundation.org.au/provision-of-effective-and-appropriate-care-for-families-who-have-experienced-stillbirth/This document has been derived from a systematic review of the available evidence regarding the nature of meaningful and, or appropriate non-pharmacological, psychosocial supportive care for families to improve their psychological well-being following stillbirth., This document provides evidence-based guidance for healthcare professionals providing care for parents who have experienced stillbirth while they are still within the hospital environment as well as beyond. The impact of stillbirth on parents and families can last for many years and healthcare professionals should be mindful that parents, need for sensitivity, empathy, validation of emotions, provision of clear, understandable information and consideration of the timing of this information does not diminish. There are a number of critical factors centred around ensuring that parents are provided with information about receiving follow-up care if and when they choose as well as important considerations for providing additional care for parents during any subsequent pregnancies, especially at the time they had experienced a stillbirth.Joanna Briggs Institut