STILLBIRTH COUNSELING Approach using the six step protocol while managing similar to post traumatic stress disorder. Patients and families are at increased risk of depression. Regular visits should be planned aimed at addressing any new emotional developments and concerns of the patient.
STILLBIRTH COUNSELING Approach using the six step protocol while managing similar to post traumatic stress disorder. Patients and families are at increased risk of depression. Regular visits should be planned aimed at addressing any new emotional developments and concerns of the patient.
STILLBIRTH COUNSELING Approach using the six step protocol while managing similar to post traumatic stress disorder. Patients and families are at increased risk of depression. Regular visits should be planned aimed at addressing any new emotional developments and concerns of the patient.
step protocol while managing similar to post traumatic stress disorder
Introduce self and explain
the reason for the interaction to follow. E.g. My name is ___ and Ive been asked to have a discussion with you about your delivery.
Ensure availability of support in form of a relative preferably the partner or nurse
Find out how much the patient knows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Can you tell me tell me about the events
of today? Can you tell me about your management during the pregnancy and any medical conditions prior to and during the pregnancy? Were you ever warned about any complications or abnormalities during the pregnancy? Enquire about her diabetic status.
Breaking the bad news
Give a warning shot. E.g.
This is difficult to say but I am afraid that the news about your baby is not what you want to hear. I am sorry to inform you that despite our best management and through no fault of yours the pregnancy has resulted in a
Explain the term still birth to the patient
and explain the possible causes while ensuring that the patient is made aware that the exact etiology is uncertain and the still birth was by no means her fault. Empathize with the patient, comforting her with the appropriate use of personal space and sympathetic gestures while allowing time fort the internalization of the news presented.
Address any concerns the patient or
partner may have. Advise on counseling, support groups and address the psychological requirement of the patients.
Advise the patient on the need for
Glycaemic control or for post partum testing in the case of GBM. The patient should also be counseled on management of subsequent pregnancies in light of her diabetic state.
Advise on contraceptives and
pap smears following delivery. Patients may also be advised to delay subsequent conception until grieving has subsided and both partners are emotionally and mentally fit.
If necessary offer puerperal lactation
suppression( carbezoline) if the patient so wishes.
Patients and families are at increased risk
of depression as such regular visits should be planned, aimed at addressing any new emotional developments and concerns of the patient.
Summarize while comforting and
reassuring the patient with the aid of an agreed upon plan for further visits