Mallorca hospital sets out palliative care for babies

Mallorca: Son Llàtzer University Hospital in Palma sets out care for families whose unborn baby has a life-threatening diagnosis, including support if the child dies during pregnancy or after birth. The Balearic Islands Health Department announced the guide on 3 November. It covers perinatal palliative care — care focused on comfort around birth — and brings several hospital teams together from the time of diagnosis.

A plan shaped with families

Obstetricians, newborn care specialists, midwives and nurses will work with the Balearic Islands’ paediatric palliative care unit. Together with each family, they will draw up a plan covering wishes for the birth, medical treatment and care for both mother and baby. The plan goes into the medical record so everyone involved can see what has been agreed.

Time together and help after loss

The guide calls for private hospital spaces where families can stay with their child and take part in their care. If a newborn baby needs palliative care, staff will focus on easing pain and other symptoms and keeping the baby comfortable and close to family. Care may also continue at home with support from the paediatric palliative care unit.

Families can receive a memory box containing photographs, handprints, footprints or clothes. If they cannot or do not want to take it when they leave hospital, Son Llàtzer will keep it for three years.

After a child dies, the guide provides for psychological support and help with paperwork. The medical team will offer a consultation after 15 to 30 days to discuss any outstanding test results, support through the loss and advice about a future pregnancy.

Topics: Health

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com