ABSTRACT 141

Abstract

Background and aims: The sudden and unexpected death of a child is a devastating and profound event for the family. A review of the literature offers little evidence or guidance into the practicalities of what can be done to involve the family and assist them in their grief and bereavement. Aims: This very practical talk will provide clear guidelines on how to creatively involve parents and siblings pre and post the death of a child. Methods: Using a summary of the literature and 20 years’ experience in pediatric emergency medicine this talk will examine how to involve parents and siblings in the discussions and decisions made prior to the death of a child. Then what the evidence demonstrates as best practice in relation to care and involvement of the family with the child’s body after death. Results: Parents and siblings who have the opportunity to be involved in the decision making and care of the child’s body have less complications in grief and bereavement long term. Creating memories and empowering families the ability to reclaim their role as family members at the time of death is critical to good mental health outcomes and honouring the child. Conclusions: Critical care staff have a pivotal role to play in ensuring family members remain creatively engaged both prior and post the death of a child. Allowing family traditions, memory making, time with the child’s body and reclaiming the family role all contribute to better outcomes for families despite the devastation of a child’s death.