Validation by the family s physician can significantly reduce self-doubt and questioning for a mother or father. It is helpful for the physician to stress that it is never acceptable, under any circumstances, for a parent to have to bury their child. Entering the room in absentia of the white coast as a clinical symbol lessens intimidation when interacting with a family. Some physicians will share that they cannot imagine losing their own child, thus substantiating the grief of the parent. These meaningless attempts at justification merely exacerbate a parent s feelings of anger and isolation.
Platitudes are unacceptable and have no place in ethical principles.
The intertwining of compassion and communication can have a monumental effect on the family in grief. It is the ethical responsibility of the medical staff to ensure comprehensive knowledge of local support groups available to parents after the death of their child. Some groups, such as the SIDS Alliance, the Compassionate Friends, and Parents of Murdered Children provide helpful brochures listing the times and locations of meetings. Surrounding themselves with others in familiar situations is comforting to parents. It also helps to assuage feelings of isolation.