Chapter 11: Early Pregnancy Complications: Perinatal Loss

Question 1

Perinatal loss can be divided into two major types:

Answer 1

• death of the fetus or newborn

- birth of a less than perfect child

Question 2

The Perinatal period contains what?

Answer 2

encompasses the total embryonic, fetal, and neonatal life span

Question 3

Why are adverse outcomes more expected during the Perinatal Period?

Answer 3

because there is a greater danger to life during this period than any other time during the life cycle

Question 4

Communicating with the family who has experienced Perinatal loss

Answer 4

• loss of a child, whether embryo, fetus, or neonate can be devastating to both woman and family
• nurse approach should be with compassion and sincerity

Question 5

“What to Say”; Expressions of caring are conveyed in these statements

Answer 5

• ” I understand this is a very difficult time for you and your family, but i want you to know that I am here and willing to listen if you want to talk. You let me know if and when you are ready.”
• “It is normal for you to be sad, and you will probably feel like this for some time. Losing a baby, no matter how far along in your pregnancy, is very difficult. I can recommend some support groups if you think you might be interested”; if the patient says she does not want the information at this time continue with, “please do not hesitate to call us if you change your mind. We can always give you the information.”
• “Does your baby have a name?” the nurse would then refer to the fetus by name. Do not use the term “fetus” with the patient. To her, the deceased fetus was her baby.