Early referral to limb deficiency clinics.

Abstract

Immediate support is needed by parents when a limb deficient child has been delivered, a time when parents' fears and problems are greatest. This support involves special skills not readily available in the community. Thus it is important that these children and their parents are referred to Specialist Clinics by their local doctor immediately after birth. Experienced therapists and medical social workers attached to these clinics are not normally available to obstetric specialists and general practitioners. The doctor-in-charge of the Clinic, the social worker and the therapist visit the parents and child in hospital. This early counselling facilitates the bonding of the parents and child. It also reduces the parents feelings of guilt and distress over having a deformed baby. Appropriate counselling given at this stage on prostheses, daily living activities, parent group discussions and the future prospects for these children, helps ensure a satisfactory life.