119 Experiences of Grief by Pediatric Intensive Care Nurses in Padua University Hospital: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Background: Nurses in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU) are doily exposed to the suffering and death of their patients. Often the emotional burden may become unbearable, dys/uncttanal responses may arise and reflect negatively on poti nes' care, Aim: To explore emotions and personal, so ial and professional consequences experienced by nurses working in a PICU. Support currently available and the need for specialist support were examined, together with possible positive outcomes. Methods: Exploratory approach. All nurses providing direct care to patients III PICU were included and asked to fill a questionnaire about feelings alld consequences regarding the patients' death, and open-ended questions. Results: Results show nurses changes in their emotional state, their relationships with patients and with wn partner/childr n, with colleagues and in their personal health. Nurses report crying, diminished energy, troubled sleep, headache, difficult concentration, physical exhaustion, changes in appetite. Nurses use informal support, but they would use specialist help if available. Among the positive outcomes, an enhanced meaning in life and a more intense coring for patient towards a dignified death. Conclusions: Caring for dying babies is a heavy burden for nurses, leading ta personal and social consequences on health and work. There is a strang need for specific support to maintain a high quality of care. rhe obi/iry to establfsh a therapeutic relationship with patients, providing support ta patient's family members and minimiz negative .onsequences for nurses.