After a stillbirth, what should the nurse say to assist the grieving family?

Offering to let the parents hold their baby after a stillbirth is a compassionate gesture that can provide important emotional support. It recognizes the baby's existence and allows the parents to begin processing their grief in a tangible way. Holding their baby gives parents a chance to say goodbye, facilitating an important part of the mourning process. This act can contribute to healing by acknowledging their loss and validating their feelings.

In contrast, suggesting to leave the room can imply that it is better to avoid the situation, which might deepen feelings of isolation. Encouraging a quick move on doesn't honor the parents' grief and could be perceived as dismissive of their loss. Focusing on other family members may lead parents to feel their own grief is trivialized or overlooked, which may not provide the support they need during such a difficult time.