Caring for the bereaved parent: Guidelines for practice.

Purpose: The purpose of this research review was to create practical guidelines for the primary care practitioner in comforting, counseling, and educating bereaved parents and their significant supporters. Data sources: The authors used an extensive review of the literature for original research reports of bereaved parents' self-identified needs for comfort from their friends, family, and healthcare practitioners. Insight gained from the authors' clinical work with bereaved parents added further understanding. Conclusions: Parents express strong preferences and needs regarding support from both social relationships and healthcare personnel. Specific guidelines were created for use by both friends/family members and health professionals. Implications for practice: Nurse practitioners have an important role in supporting bereaved parents, and educating their friends and family on the most helpful behaviors during this painful time.