Maternity Hospital Staff can avail of up-to-date information
and advice on the procedures required and practical guidelines
to assist them in supporting the family involved by phoning
the
'Information Hotline for Professionals'
at
087-423777
(available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
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Most parents who experience a Sudden Infant Death go on to have a subsequent
child. A pregnancy following a Sudden Infant Death, and the early months
of life of the new child, can be an anxious and worrying time for the
parents.
Even though the chance of such a tragedy recurring is remote, parents
often fear that the next child will also die. Due to this, they may doubt
their own ability to cope with the new child.
- The Hospital Manager should ensure that all staff are fully aware
of the facts, as well as the myths, about SIDS. ISIDA's training video
for professionals can assist in this area. Medical and Nursing staff
(who may come into contact with a SIDS mother) should receive specific
training in active listening and basic communication skills.
- When notified that a child who was born at the hospital has died
of SIDS, ensure that all records are updated accordingly.
- The Consultant Obstetrician and the Paediatrician who cared for
the mother and child should write to the parents offering them an
appointment to see them.
- If the medical records or ward records hold any photographs of the
child, these should be offered to the parents.
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- Ensure that the ante- and post-natal staff are aware of the child's
death.
- During subsequent pregnancies, the Consultant Obstetrician and the
Paediatrician should meet the parents early in the subsequent pregnancies
to discuss any concerns they may have regarding the care and management
of the subsequent child.
- The issue of home monitoring of the subsequent child is raised by
many parents. The Paediatrician should attend to this, according to
the guidelines laid down by the Faculty of Paediatrics (Appendix E).
- Suggest to parents that they may find it supportive and reassuring
to talk with other parents who have had a child subsequent to a Sudden
Infant Death. Ask the parents if they would like to speak to such
a parent. You can arrange this by phoning ISIDA's Nationwide Support
Helpline and/or give the parents the number
1800 391 391
Remember that the sudden death of an infant or young child normally
affects all who come into contact with it. If you feel that
you would like to talk to someone, ISIDA provides a confidential
Nationwide Helpline 1800 391 391
where you can contact someone who understands and is willing
to listen - you do not have to be a parent or relative.
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