This comprehensive online course, offered through Relias Learning, is designed to equip nursing personnel in skilled nursing facilities with essential knowledge and skills for managing grief and loss, particularly within pediatric palliative care. Developed by experts at the ELNEC Project and revised by Amy Haskamp, MSN, RN, PCNS-BC, CPON, CHPPN, FPCN, this one-hour course provides a deep understanding of grief processes in children and families, and effective intervention strategies.
Understanding Grief: A Foundational Approach
Section 1 of the course delves into the multifaceted nature of grief. It starts with “Witnessing Grief,” setting the stage by illustrating the pervasive presence of grief in healthcare settings. The course introduces learners to real-world scenarios through examples like “Meet Melissa,” likely a case study or narrative to personalize the experience of loss. “Experiencing Loss” broadens the scope to encompass the various forms loss can take, while “Definitions” and “Models of Grief” provide a solid theoretical framework. Learners will explore “Types of Grief,” including the particularly sensitive area of “Perinatal and Neonatal Loss.” The section further examines “Factors Influencing the Grief Process” and the profound “Effects of Grief on the Family,” emphasizing the systemic impact of loss. Finally, “Your Role” clarifies the healthcare professional’s responsibilities in supporting grieving individuals and families. Key takeaways and reviews are strategically placed to reinforce learning throughout this foundational section.
Responding to Grief: Practical Interventions and Strategies
Building upon the foundational knowledge, Section 2 focuses on practical application. “Grief Assessment” equips learners with the tools to identify and evaluate grief responses effectively. The course then transitions to “Grief Interventions for Families” and specifically “Grief Interventions for Children,” providing targeted strategies for different age groups. “Helping Children Cope” further refines these techniques, offering actionable steps to support younger individuals navigating loss. This section, like the first, incorporates reviews and key takeaways to solidify the practical skills learned.
Grief and the Healthcare Professional: Self-Care and Resilience
Section 3 addresses the often-overlooked impact of grief on healthcare professionals themselves. “Death Anxiety” is explored, acknowledging the emotional challenges inherent in end-of-life care. “Cumulative Loss” recognizes the potential for burnout and compassion fatigue in this field. Crucially, “Maintaining a Sense of Balance” offers strategies for self-care and resilience, vital for sustaining a long and healthy career in healthcare. Review sections and key takeaways ensure these critical self-care concepts are well-integrated.
Conclusion: Course Summary and Resources
The concluding section provides a comprehensive “Course Summary,” reiterating the key learning objectives and reinforcing the overall message of the course. Information about “Course Contributors” like the ELNEC Project Team and Amy Haskamp adds credibility and expertise. Finally, “Resources” and “References” provide avenues for further learning and exploration, enhancing the long-term value of this Relias Learning course.
This Relias Learning course, identified by Course Code: REL-PAC-ELNEC-PEDGBPPC, ensures transparency regarding any commercial support and adheres to a grievance policy for learner satisfaction. Rooted in diversity, inclusiveness, and a multicultural perspective, the course aims to cultivate cultural competency. Successful completion, requiring an 80% post-test score and course evaluation, grants continuing education credit. Delivered through asynchronous distance learning with interactive quizzes and post-tests, this course offers a flexible and engaging learning experience.
