Coping with Patient Death: Therapeutic Interventions for Pediatric Critical Care Nurses

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Shelby Klotter
Kathryn Manning
Garrett Said
Kathleen Dellerman

Abstract

By Shelby Klotter, Nursing and Biological Sciences; Kathryn Manning, Nursing; Garrett Said, Nursing


Advisor: Kathleen Dellerman


Presentation ID: AM_A39


Abstract: Studies have shown that a significant number of pediatric nurses experience moderate to high levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization and low levels of personal accomplishment as a result of ineffective coping related to patient death. These symptoms are characteristic of a high risk of burnout. It is evident that there is a need for increased education for nurses on ways to deal with the death of a child to decrease burnout. An informative presentation was delivered to pediatric nurse orientees of the cardiac intensive care unit at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. The goal of this presentation was to help pediatric nurses learn and develop skills to cope with a child's dying process. The presentation was designed to help intensive care nurses learn coping mechanisms, identify signs of stress and burnout, and utilize support systems. A survey was administered after the presentation to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching.

Article Details

Section
AM Poster Session -- Great Hall -- A: Social Justice & Social Well-Being