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Discussion

How to prepare?

I found out that a pediatric patient of mine has suffered brain damage due to going without oxygen for an unknown amount of time. Details not important, but no it wasn't me or anything I did that caused it. I haven't been to the house in weeks.

Anyway, I was told that the patient isn't the same kid anymore. (obviously) They aren't looking around, cooing, crying... nothing. I am absolutely devastated by this news and another nurse told me to prepare myself for the next time I work with them. How does one prepare themselves for that?

Or is there even a way to prepare yourself? Is it okay if I cry in front of the parents and the child?

Also, what do you say to or do for the parents? It's not like their child died, but there is still a grief process that is occurring.

Any advice is welcome... thanks in advance.

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    Take your cues from the parents. Since you are not new to this case, they will most likely say something. If not, say nothing. Just do your work and document accordingly, since you have been briefed about the change in condition.

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    Refresh yourself on the stages of grief and like caliotter3 said, take your cues from the parents. Some of the parents I work with would expect me to grieve with them, others are more stoic. In the end, you are there to give RN care to their child, not to bring your own feelings and emotions to the table for them to deal with as well. Again, the grieving process is in their hands and don't be surprised if they are at different phases from each other.

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    I'd say prepare for a change. But the child needed nursing prior to this, so you are still going in to care for the child just as you did before. You may have some new orders or changes to existing orders. Changes in status, for whatever reason, happen. Be supportive of the parents and take cues from them as to what they may need from you. You'll be fine!

    If I have a difficult situation at work, I tend to hold it in until I get to my car. Sometimes I need silence in the car. Most of the time I end up playing music loudly and it's very therapeutic! Don't know if that helps. But find what helps you cope. It's a skill needed for this job.

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