Management Personnel 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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- The Hospital Manager, Nursing Administration Officer, or Matron
should ensure that all hospital staff are fully aware of the facts,
as well as the myths, about SIDS. ISIDA's training video for professionals
should be part of their in-service training programme. Senior nursing
staff should receive specific skill training in active listening and
and in how to cope with its immediate impact on heart-broken parents
and family members.
- When a call is received that a dead or possibly dead infant is due
to arrive, advise the ambulance driver, family doctor, parent or accompanying
person to arrive through the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department.
In the case of District Hospitals, admission should be made through
Reception. Under no circumstances should they be directed to the
mortuary.
- The person who received the phone call of the intended arrival should
immediately inform the Hospital Manager, Nursing Administrator and
Matron. In the case of parents or family presenting directly to the
hospital, step 2 above should be carried out by the receiving professional.
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- The Hospital Manager, Nursing Administrator, Matron or designated
person should alert A&E/Reception and inform them that the child
will enter there as a patient. Inform the A&E Department/Reception
of the name of the Senior Nurse designated to care for the family.
Emphasise that once the child is pronounced dead, then the accompanying
person(s) are the real patients, in need of special care and attention
from all concerned (led by the designated Senior Nurse).
- The Hospital Manager, Nursing Administrator, Matron or designated
person should immediately designate a Senior Nurse who will meet the
parents/relatives on arrival and will remain with them for as long
as is required.
- The Hospital Manager, Nursing Administrator, Matron or designated
person should immediately arrange a room or private area to be made
available to the parents/relatives (with a private phone facility)
in which they can spend time with their dead child.
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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