St. Louis Nurses Create Bereavement Standards for Infant Loss

Labor and delivery nurses in St. Louis have established a nonprofit to standardize care for families who suffer the loss of a pregnancy or infant.

The organization addresses a gap in medical protocols that has existed for decades. Most diagnoses within the medical profession have a defined standard of care, but no formal standard has historically existed for unexpected infant loss, according to Kayla Hollingshead.

The group was formed by nurses who experienced the emotional toll of caring for mothers who had suffered a loss. They created a new set of guidelines that dictates how office staff speaks to grieving families. The organization also produces comfort kits containing books, cards, and self-care items. These kits are mailed to affected families around the world.

The episode also examined communication strategies for caregivers dealing with stress. "Sam" Cradduck, a gerontologist, advised that the first move when a conversation feels like it is about to escalate is to leave the room. He recommended that caregivers step away to let themselves calm down before re-engaging.

Aging expert Amy O’Rourke cautioned that specific words can heighten tension during these interactions. She listed six terms that tend to escalate conversations: no, you, always, never, don’t, and you can’t. O’Rourke urged caregivers to choose their words with care to prevent conflict.

The segment on physical health focused on gout, a condition described as common and painful. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, noted that the condition often presents as a red and throbbing big toe. Rogers explained that gout begins with uric acid building up in the blood. This buildup leads to crystals forming in joints and other tissues. The immune system then treats these crystals as foreign objects.

Rogers stated that uric acid buildup can point to larger underlying health issues. She outlined warning signs and everyday steps that can help prevent painful flare-ups.

The broadcast also covered the preservation of Ford Model A vehicles. The Ford Motor Company produced the Model A for a limited time between 1927 and 1931. During that period, Ford manufactured roughly 5 million of the cars. Only a fraction of those vehicles remain in operation today.

Car clubs are helping to keep the iconic engines running. Stew Wolfe, vice president of the Old Dominion Model A Ford Club, described the reaction from the public. Wolfe said the club gets a lot of smiles per mile and that people get excited when they see the cars. He noted that the reaction intensifies when the drivers blow the ahooga horn, causing particular excitement among children.

The program concluded with a disclaimer stating it is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or professional services. The information should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem. Individuals seeking personal medical advice were told to consult a licensed physician. The program advised viewers to call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately in the event of a medical emergency.