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Fernández-Alcántara M, Esteban-Burgos AA, Escribano S, Congost-Maestre N, Pollock D, Cabañero-Martínez MJ. Spanish adaptation of the Stillbirth Stigma Scale (SSS). DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38329460 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2312378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The death of a baby in the perinatal period is considered a disenfranchized grief that can be a source of significant symptoms of guilt, shame, and stigma. There is a lack of validated instruments for assessing the stigma associated with perinatal grief. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties (factor structure, reliability, and validity) of the Spanish version of the Stillbirth Stigma Scale (SSS) in parents who have experienced a perinatal loss. A total of 291 participants (mostly mothers) completed an online questionnaire that included the SSS and other measures. The best-fitting factor structure was a second-order model with four dimensions and adequate reliability values. In terms of validity, we found statistically significant relationships between the SSS scores and the variables of self-esteem, complicated grief, event centrality, depression, and anxiety. In conclusion, the Spanish adaptation of the SSS is deemed to have adequate psychometric properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Fernández-Alcántara
- Department of Health Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), University of Alicante, Spain
| | - Ana Alejandra Esteban-Burgos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación biosanitaria de Granada (Ibs.GRANADA), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Silvia Escribano
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | | | - Danielle Pollock
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - María José Cabañero-Martínez
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
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Ennis N, Bottomley J, Sawyer J, Moreland AD, Rheingold AA. Measuring Grief in the Context of Traumatic Loss: A Systematic Review of Assessment Instruments. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2346-2362. [PMID: 35616367 PMCID: PMC9699905 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221093694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Following traumatic loss, defined as the death of a loved one due to unexpected or violent circumstances, adults may experience a myriad of grief-related problems. Given the addition of Prolonged Grief Disorders into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders Fifth Edition, Text-Revision and influx of unexpected deaths due to the global Coronavirus pandemic, there is heightened interest in the measurement of grief-related processes. We conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify measures of grief used in studies of adults who experienced traumatic loss. Searches yielded 164 studies that used 31 unique measures of grief-related constructs. The most commonly used instrument was the Inventory of Complicated Grief-Revised. Half of the measures assessed constructs beyond diagnosable pathological grief responses. Given the wide variation and adaptations of measures reviewed, we recommend greater testing and uniformity of measurement across the field. Future research is needed to adapt and/or design measures to evaluate new criteria for Prolonged Grief Disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Ennis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jamison Bottomley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Angela D. Moreland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Alyssa A. Rheingold
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Beer J, Bazaraah R, Fouly H. Describing the lived experiences of nurses and midwives in caring for mothers and families during a fetal loss. SAUDI JOURNAL FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/sjhs.sjhs_137_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
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Vescovi G, Corrêa MA, Frizzo GB, Dias ACG, Levandowski DC. Construction of Meaning in Pregnancy Loss: Qualitative Study with Brazilian Couples. PSICO-USF 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-82712022270301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract We investigated the process of meaning construction in pregnancy loss in 11 Brazilian couples. The reports were submitted to inductive and deductive thematic analysis using the categorization system from the integrative model of meaning construction in grief. Regarding the original dimensions of the model (Sense-making of death, benefit from the experience of loss, and identity change), there was a lack of meaning for death, perception of strengthened bonds within the couple as a benefit, and parenting as an identity project. We propose an additional dimension (Meaning-making process) that includes gender differences, lack of social recognition, and emotional intensity of the experience. As for coping strategies, spirituality and the search for peers were identified, especially in social media. After a pregnancy loss, the process of meaning construction proved similar to that of other types of loss, validating this experience. We discuss the implications of the category system used in this study.
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Wesselmann ED, Parris L. Miscarriage, Perceived Ostracism, and Trauma: A Preliminary Investigation. Front Psychol 2022; 12:747860. [PMID: 35153890 PMCID: PMC8828504 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.747860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Miscarriage often is a traumatic experience with serious mental health implications. Friends and family members are often uncomfortable with and avoid discussing the topic with bereaved individuals, potentially making them feel ostracized (i.e., being ignored and excluded), contributing to their mental health concerns. We investigated the correlation between posttraumatic stress symptoms, perceived ostracism, and recalled grief intensity measures in a sample of cisgender women (N = 97) who have had a miscarriage. These participants were recruited using Qualtrics’s Panel Recruitment Services. Women’s perceived ostracism correlated positively with posttraumatic stress symptoms and negatively with grief congruence (i.e., the degree to which they felt that their miscarriage process was as satisfactory as possible, given they had to experience it). Perceived ostracism also explained additional variance in posttraumatic stress symptoms when considered alongside grief intensity measures (e.g., congruence).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Wesselmann
- Department of Psychology, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
| | - Leandra Parris
- College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
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Güçlü O, Şenormanci G, Tüten A, Gök K, Şenormanci Ö. Perinatal Grief and Related Factors After Termination of Pregnancy for Fetal Anomaly: One-Year Follow-up Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 58:221-227. [PMID: 34526846 PMCID: PMC8419734 DOI: 10.29399/npa.25110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Many people grieve in a resilient manner, often having a sense of equilibrium restored within six months. The most devastating type of loss is usually considered to be the death of the child. For such a loss, bereavement may take a period of distressing years with signs and symptoms that are related to grief. There have been different phases identified in the grieving process, and this process encompasses various difficulties with different levels of psychological effects. Women with perinatal losses can suffer long periods of grief. The purpose of this study was to monitor the grief in women who had undergone a termination of pregnancy due to fetal anomaly. Methods: Forty-six women who applied to the Gynaecology Clinic of Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine and who decided to terminate their pregnancy due to fetal anomaly were included in the study. The Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Multidimensional Relationship Questionnaire (MRQ) and the Adult Attachment Scale (AAS) were administered to the participants six weeks after termination. Participants’ grief signs were re-evaluated with the PGS at the sixth and 12th months. Results: There was no relationship between severity of grief symptoms and socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients. The perinatal grief symptoms can decrease gradually from termination of pregnancy to six months and can persist for a period of six months up to a year. There was positive correlation between the scores of PGS and BAI, IES-R hyper-arousal. The mean score of PGS changed significantly from sixth week to sixth month and from sixth week to 12th months. IES-R hyper-arousal and MRQ relational satisfaction were found to be the predictors for PGS total score at the first year. Conclusion: The diagnosis of fetal anomaly and especially the termination of pregnancy itself may be traumatic and disruptive. In women with perinatal loss, grief may become persistent after the first six months. It would be helpful to examine how the women resolve this experience. Especially the anxiety and the hyper-arousal signs following the termination should not be ignored. Perinatal grief is a unique bereavement experience; specific interventions should be performed for detecting and treating severe perinatal grief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oya Güçlü
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Bakırköy Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Güliz Şenormanci
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Tüten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul University Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Koray Gök
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ömer Şenormanci
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
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Yenal K, Tektaş P, Dönmez A, Okumuş H. Perinatal Loss: Experiences of Midwives and Nurses. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2021:302228211029143. [PMID: 34324400 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211029143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to determine the experiences of Turkish midwives and nurses when caring for families with perinatal loss. It was a descriptive and qualitative study. One-to-one interviews were conducted with ten midwives and five nurses using a semi-structured interview form. It was found that the nurses and midwives experienced pain and grief during caring for women who had perinatal losses, and they tried to relieve these feelings by using positive thinking and prayer. The nurses and midwives stated that they were unsure how to approach women or family experiencing perinatal loss, and they needed mentoring and training. The results showed that it would be beneficial to plan training for nurses and midwives and to conduct mentoring for those experiencing difficulties. For nurses and midwives frequently facing perinatal loss, there will be benefit in planning grief care training at regular intervals and mentoring for those experiencing difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerziban Yenal
- Nursing Department, School of Health, European University of Lefke, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
| | - Pınar Tektaş
- Nursing Department, School of Health, European University of Lefke, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
| | - Ayşegül Dönmez
- Midwifery Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Tınaztepe University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hülya Okumuş
- Nursing Faculty, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
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Berry SN, Severtsen B, Davis A, Nelson L, Hutti MH, Oneal G. The impact of anencephaly on parents: A mixed-methods study. DEATH STUDIES 2021; 46:2198-2207. [PMID: 33866956 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2021.1909669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study used a convergent parallel mixed-method design to explore the impact of an anencephalic pregnancy on parents. Twenty women and four men between 18-59 years old participated. Interview transcripts were analyzed using interpretive phenomenology and synthesized with Perinatal Grief Intensity Scale scores using a Pearson's correlation. Overall, 75% of parents scored intense grief. Qualitative patterns included overwhelming trauma, patient-centeredness as critical, stigmatizing perinatal loss, embracing personhood, and reframing reality. Control over care was associated with decreased grief (p =.019). Health care professionals are ideally positioned to reduce the risk of intense grief in parents experiencing an anencephalic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shandeigh N Berry
- College of Arts & Sciences, Saint Martin's University, Olympia, Washington, USA
| | - Billie Severtsen
- College of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Andra Davis
- College of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Lonnie Nelson
- College of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Marianne H Hutti
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Gail Oneal
- College of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
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9
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A systematic review of instruments measuring grief after perinatal loss and factors associated with grief reactions. Palliat Support Care 2020; 19:246-256. [PMID: 32867873 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951520000826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Expectant parents who live through perinatal loss experience intense grief, which is not always acknowledged or accepted. A screening tool to detect bereaved parents' grief reactions can guide professionals, including perinatal palliative care teams, to provide follow-up for those in need. This review's goal is to identify and synthesize the international published literature on existent instruments specifically measuring the grieving process after any perinatal loss and to identify factors that could moderate grief reactions. METHOD Systematic review (PROSPERO # CRD42018092555) with critical synthesis. PUBMED, Cochrane, and PsycINFO databases were searched in English language articles using the keywords "perinatal" AND ("grief" OR "bereavement" OR mourning) AND ("scale" OR "questionnaire" OR "measure" OR "assessment") up to May 2018. Eligibility criteria included every study using a measure to assess perinatal grief after all kinds of perinatal losses, including validations and translations to other languages and interventions designed to alleviate grief symptoms. RESULTS A total of 67 papers met inclusion criteria. Seven instruments measuring perinatal grief published between 1984 and 2002 are described. The Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS) was used in 53 of the selected studies. Of those, 39 analyzed factors associated with grief reactions. Six articles used PGS scores to evaluate pre- and post-bereavement interventions. Studies in English language only might have limited the number of articles. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The PGS is the most used standardized measures to assess grief after perinatal loss. All parents living through any kind of perinatal loss should be screened.
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Fernández-Alcántara M, Schul-Martin L, García Caro MP, Montoya-Juárez R, Pérez-Marfil MN, Zech E. 'In the hospital there are no care guidelines': experiences and practices in perinatal loss in Spain. Scand J Caring Sci 2020; 34:1063-1073. [PMID: 31922624 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Healthcare professionals play an important role in supporting and attending to families that experience a perinatal loss. Previous research has identified the existence of obstacles that professionals may encounter during their practices. The main objective of the current research was to identify and examine the subjective experiences and practices of experienced professionals attending to perinatal loss in the hospital context in Spain. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive design. SETTING Three different hospitals in Spain. PARTICIPANTS Sixteen professionals were interviewed, including doctors, nurses, midwives, nursing assistants, a psychologist and a funeral home manager. METHODS Individual semi-structured interviews focusing on three areas were carried out: practices with the baby-foetus, practices with parents and interaction with the team. A thematic analysis was performed using the three main focuses of the semi-structured interview (deductive approach) and the codes that emerged from the data (inductive approach). RESULTS Regarding guideline-based care for the baby/foetus, participants made a distinction between the initial process of care for the baby and the decision-making process with parents. Where support for families was concerned, participants identified considerable variability in the practices used and lack of organisational and care guidelines, psychological support and follow-up. Finally, interactions with other team members were perceived as a source of support, although participants identified a significant lack of coordination. CONCLUSION Participants reported variability of practices in care for the baby and parents, lack of continuity-of-care guidelines and the importance of support from a coordinated healthcare team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Fernández-Alcántara
- Mind, Brain, and Behaviour Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Health Psychology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Laetitia Schul-Martin
- Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Catholic University of Louvain, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Mª Paz García Caro
- Mind, Brain, and Behaviour Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Nursing, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael Montoya-Juárez
- Mind, Brain, and Behaviour Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Nursing, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Mª Nieves Pérez-Marfil
- Mind, Brain, and Behaviour Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Emmanuelle Zech
- Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Catholic University of Louvain, Louvain, Belgium
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Sorce G, Chamberlain J. Evaluation of an education session using standardized patients and role play during perinatal bereavement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of caring for women with a perinatal loss from the perspective of the nurse and to determine the extent to which the response to perinatal loss reflects a process. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A purposive study was conducted with nine labor and birth nurses with experience in caring for women with a perinatal loss. The nurses were from two acute care hospitals within one healthcare system in Southeastern Massachusetts. A qualitative descriptive design with in-depth interviewing based on was used to gather and analyze data. RESULTS Several themes depicting nurses' experience were identified: struggling with emotions, carrying on in the moment, being present for the patient, expressing conflict, and taking care of self. A process was identified by nurses describing their response to perinatal loss. The process began with recognition of the loss and progressed through phases including the recognition of their emotional impact, connecting with the mother, dealing with emotions, acting professionally, preparing to return to work, and never forgetting the woman. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Nurses identified a need for more education and managerial support for excellence in care of women with a perinatal loss. Education to prepare nurses to meet the physical, psychological, and spiritual needs of women is recommended. Debriefing after caring for a woman with a loss was suggested by the nurses. When nurses' needs are met, they are better prepared to care for women experiencing a perinatal loss.
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The Impact of Communication Surrounding Intrauterine Congenital Anomaly Diagnoses: An Integrative Review. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2019; 33:301-311. [PMID: 30741752 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Congenital anomalies are the leading cause of infant death in the United States, accounting for 20% of the annual infant mortality. Advancements in ultrasound diagnostic technology allow practitioners to diagnose fetal anomalies as early as 11 weeks' gestational age, 75% of which are detected in low-risk pregnancies. Communicating a fetal anomaly diagnosis to parents and initiating perinatal end-of-life discussions are difficult for healthcare providers and parents alike. Furthermore, poorly communicated diagnoses have had long-term negative impacts on perinatal grief intensity, which can manifest into lifelong symptoms of adverse psychosocial outcomes such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. The purpose of this integrative review is to examine the impact of communication in discussing an intrauterine diagnosis of a fetal congenital anomaly on perinatal grief. An integrative review was conducted following the distinct 5-stage process of problem identification, searching the literature, evaluating data, analyzing, and presenting findings. A systematic literature review using the PICO model (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) and structured after the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). This framework was completed between November 2017 and May 2018 using PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases. Of the 931 article results, 15 satisfied search criteria. Emerging themes included parental need for appropriate time to assimilate and understand the diagnosis, freedom to explore options and alternatives, and the need for clinicians with expert communication skills. The initial conversation communicating the diagnosis of a congenital anomaly impacts expectant parents for the remainder of their lives. Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to either positively or negatively impact the intensity of perinatal grieving reactions. The application of empathetic, sensitive communication may offer solace and promote healing surrounding perinatal end-of-life discussions.
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Hutti MH, Myers JA, Hall LA, Polivka BJ, White S, Hill J, Grisanti M, Hayden J, Kloenne E. Predicting Need for Follow-Up Due to Severe Anxiety and Depression Symptoms After Perinatal Loss. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2018; 47:125-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
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Hutti MH, Myers J, Hall LA, Polivka BJ, White S, Hill J, Kloenne E, Hayden J, Grisanti MM. Predicting grief intensity after recent perinatal loss. J Psychosom Res 2017; 101:128-134. [PMID: 28867418 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Perinatal Grief Intensity Scale (PGIS) was developed for clinical use to identify and predict intense grief and need for follow-up after perinatal loss. This study evaluates the validity of the PGIS via its ability to predict future intense grief based on a PGIS score obtained early after a loss. METHODS A prospective observational study was conducted with 103 international, English-speaking women recruited at hospital discharge or via the internet who experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death within the previous 8weeks. Survey data were collected at baseline using the PGIS and the Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS). Follow-up data on the PGS were obtained 3months later. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis. RESULTS Cronbach's alphas were ≥0.70 for both instruments. PGIS factor analysis yielded three factors as predicted, explaining 57.7% of the variance. The optimal cutoff identified for the PGIS was 3.535. No difference was found when the ability of the PGIS to identify intense grief was compared to the PGS (p=0.754). The PGIS was not inferior to the PGS (AUC=0.78, 95% CI 0.68-0.88, p<0.001) in predicting intense grief at the follow-up. A PGIS score≥3.53 at baseline was associated with increased grief intensity at Time 2 (PGS: OR=1.97, 95% CI 1.59-2.34, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The PGIS is comparable to the PGS, has a lower response burden, and can reliably and validly predict women who may experience future intense grief associated with perinatal loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne H Hutti
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, 555 S. Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
| | - John Myers
- University of Louisville, School of Medicine, USA
| | - Lynne A Hall
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, 555 S. Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Barbara J Polivka
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, 555 S. Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Susan White
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, Norton Healthcare, USA
| | - Janice Hill
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, Norton Healthcare, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kloenne
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, 555 S. Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Jaclyn Hayden
- University of Louisville, School of Nursing, 555 S. Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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Tektaş P, Çam O. The Effects of Nursing Care Based on Watson's Theory of Human Caring on the Mental Health of Pregnant Women After a Pregnancy Loss. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2017; 31:440-446. [PMID: 28927506 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pınar Tektaş
- Department of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Ege Univesity, Faculty of Nursing, Bornova, İzmir, Turkey.
| | - Olcay Çam
- Department of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Ege Univesity, Faculty of Nursing, Bornova, İzmir, Turkey
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents who experience a perinatal loss often leave the hospital with empty arms and no tangible mementos to validate the parenting experience. Opportunities to create parenting experiences with transitional objects exist following the infant's death. PURPOSE This article offers suggestions for staff in units where infant loss is possible to best assist parents in optimal grieving through the offering of transitional bereavement objects. METHODS/SEARCH STRATEGY CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched using the following key words-perinatal bereavement, grief, perinatal loss, transitional objects, bereavement photography-and the search was limited to 5 years and the English language. FINDINGS/RESULTS Recommendations exist and are well supported by leading neonatal and perinatal nursing and medicine organizations for the use of transitional objects to facilitate healthy grieving when parents experience perinatal loss. Transitional objects are mementos that validate the meaning of parenthood-even if the physical act of parenting was brief. Nursing and medical staff have significant roles in guiding parents to a healthy state of bereavement and ultimately managing long-term grief. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Transitional objects can be provided by staff that are low-cost or free, such as taking photographs for parents, or they can involve purchased products from perinatal bereavement programs. In the latter case, funding needs are a consideration for budgeting decisions. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Immediately following a loss, parents experience a brief sense of healing after receiving mementos of their infant. However, further research is needed to assess long-term effects of receiving transitional objects following perinatal loss.
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San Lazaro Campillo I, Meaney S, McNamara K, O'Donoghue K. Psychological and support interventions to reduce levels of stress, anxiety or depression on women's subsequent pregnancy with a history of miscarriage: an empty systematic review. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e017802. [PMID: 28882928 PMCID: PMC5595175 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effect of interventions to reduce stress in pregnant women with a history of miscarriage. DESIGN A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). DATA SOURCE A total of 13 medical, psychological and social electronic databases were searched from January 1995 to April 2016 including PUBMED, CENTRAL, Web of Science and EMBASE. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA This review focused on women in their subsequent pregnancy following miscarriage. All published RCTs which assessed the effect of non-medical interventions such as counselling or support interventions on psychological and mental health outcomes such as stress, anxiety or depression when compared with a control group were included. Stress, anxiety or depression had to be measured at least preintervention and postintervention. RESULTS This systematic review found no RCT which met our initial inclusion criteria. Of the 4140 titles screened, 17 RCTs were identified. All of them were excluded. One RCT, which implemented a caring-based intervention, included pregnant women in their subsequent pregnancy; however, miscarriage was analysed as a composite variable among other pregnancy losses such as stillbirth and neonatal death. Levels of perceived stress were measured by four RCTs. Different types of non-medical interventions, time of follow-up and small sample sizes were found. CONCLUSION Cohort studies and RCTs in non-pregnant women suggest that support and psychological interventions may improve pregnant women's psychological well-being after miscarriage. This improvement may reduce adverse pregnancy-related outcomes in subsequent pregnancies. However, this review found no RCTs which met our criteria. There is a need for targeted RCTs that can provide reliable and conclusive results to determine effective interventions for this vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra San Lazaro Campillo
- Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sarah Meaney
- Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre (NPEC), University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Karen McNamara
- Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Keelin O'Donoghue
- Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork - National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
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Wonch Hill P, Cacciatore J, Shreffler KM, Pritchard KM. The loss of self: The effect of miscarriage, stillbirth, and child death on maternal self-esteem. DEATH STUDIES 2017; 41:226-235. [PMID: 27854184 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2016.1261204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A child's death augments how grieving parents view the world, the family, and the self. Using a representative sample of women ages 25-45 who have ever given birth, we assessed whether miscarriage, stillbirth, and child death impact self-esteem and whether this loss is moderated by maternal identity. We found that stillbirth and child death, but not miscarriage, negatively impacted self-esteem. For those who experienced a loss, the impact on self-esteem was moderated by maternal identity. Women who experienced a stillbirth were the only group who had significantly lower self-esteem after controlling for background characteristics and maternal identity variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Wonch Hill
- a Department of Sociology , University of Nebraska-Lincoln , Lincoln , Nebraska , USA
| | - Joanne Cacciatore
- b Department of Social Work , Arizona State University , Phoenix , Arizona , USA
| | - Karina M Shreffler
- c Department of Human Development and Family Science , Oklahoma State University , Tulsa , Oklahoma , USA
| | - Kayla M Pritchard
- d Department of Social Sciences , South Dakota School of Mines and Technology , Rapid City , South Dakota , USA
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Hutti MH, Polivka B, White S, Hill J, Clark P, Cooke C, Clemens S, Abell H. Experiences of Nurses Who Care for Women After Fetal Loss. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2016; 45:17-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Hutti MH, Armstrong DS, Myers JA, Hall LA. Grief Intensity, Psychological Well‐Being, and the Intimate Partner Relationship in the Subsequent Pregnancy after a Perinatal Loss. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2015; 44:42-50. [DOI: 10.1111/1552-6909.12539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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