Touching is a basic form of comfort and communication. Remember that it is a crucial time for you as a professional to show your humanness. If you feel the need to express your own emotions, cry with them. You are in a position of leadership and you lend validity to their emotions. Most parents, even years after their child's death, recall with great fondness a paramedic or physician who shared a moment and cried with them.
Vulnerability can sometimes reflect immeasurable strength.
Most parents appreciate being asked about organ donation. They should be offered the option to consider this. Reassure the parents that their child will be treated with respect and dignity if they choose organ donation. Rather, encourage support group participation and give them names and numbers. The last thing grief-stricken parents need is to have to search through the telephone directory for support and help.