Essential Engagement: Nicu Nurses' Relationships within End-of-Life Care

Abstract

Lindsay, Cross, and Ives-Baine (2012) explored the experiences of neonatal intensive care (NICU) nurses with infants at end-of-life and their families. In keeping with our research agreement, the findings were presented to the rest of the NICU staff at two sets of education days. The nurses affirmed the research pattern of essential engagement through telling stories of grief and professional growth. We conceptualized how nurses construct relationships through conscious engagement, dialogue, and reflection and reframing. Connecting the original findings with the nurses' responses from the education days has led to innovative actions within this NICU. This article also examines the development of an End-of-life Resource Team and Voicing Space as well as addressing ideas for further research.