The nurse has been caring for a newborn who just died. The parents are present but say they are "afraid" to hold the dead newborn. Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

A) Tell them there is nothing to fear.
B) Insist that they hold newborn "one last time."
C) Respect their wishes and release body to morgue.
D) Keep newborn's body available for a few hours in case they change their minds.

When the parents are hesitant about holding and touching their newborn, the nurse should keep the newborn's body for a few hours. Many parents change their minds after the initial shock of the newborn's death. This will provide the parents time to see and hold their newborn if they desire. Stating that there is nothing to fear minimizes the parents' feelings. The nurse should allow the family to parent their child as they wish in death, as in life. Many parents change their minds; if possible, the nurse should wrap the newborn in blankets and keep the newborn's body on the unit for a few hours.