Rights
Of Parents When A Baby Dies
To be given the opportunity
to see, hold and touch their baby at any time before and/ or after death within reason.
To have photographs
of their baby taken, and made available to the parents or held in security until the parents wish to see them.
To be given as many
mementos as possible, e.g. crib card, baby beads, ultrasound and/or other photos, lock of hair, feet and handprints and record
of weight and length.
To name their child
and bond with him or her.
To observe cultural
and religious practices.
To be cared for by
an empathetic staff who will respect their feelings, thoughts, beliefs and individual requests.
To be with each other
through hospitalization as much as possible.
To be given time
alone with their baby, allowing for individual needs.
To be informed of
the grieving process.
To request an autopsy.
In the case of miscarriage, to request to have or not have an autopsy or pathology exam as determined by applicable law.
To have information
presented in terminology understandable to the parents, regarding their baby’s status and cause of death, including
autopsy and pathology reports and medical records.
To plan a farewell
ritual, burial or cremation in compliance with local state regulations and according to their personal beliefs, religious
or cultural tradition.
To be provided with
information on support resources that assist in the healing process, e.g., support groups, counseling, reading material and
perinatal loss newsletters.
Rights
Of The Baby
To be recognized
as a person who was born and died.
To be named.
To be seen, touched
and held by the family.
To have life ending
acknowledged.
To be put to rest
with dignity.