NURSING ACTIONS IN THE CARE OF PUERPERAL WOMEN IN SITUATIONS OF NEONATAL LOSS

Abstract

Introduction: Neonatal loss is a critical experience that disrupts the natural order of life, causing suffering for the puerperal woman and her family. Nursing care for puerperal women facing neonatal loss requires a sensitive, technically competent, and humanized approach in a moment marked by intense emotional pain. Objective: To describe the nurse’s role in the care and support of puerperal women experiencing neonatal loss. Methodology: Descriptive literature review with a qualitative approach. The databases consulted were the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), the Nursing Database (BDENF), and Google Scholar. Analysis and discussion of results: Three themes emerged: (1) welcoming and empathic listening as the foundation of care, with validation of suffering, sensitive communication, and opportunities for contact and farewell rituals; (2) nursing interventions and emotional support, including memory-making, family guidance, screening for depressive/anxious symptoms, continuity of care, and referral to psychological support and peer groups; (3) professional training and institutional challenges, with gaps in protocols, breaking bad news, and organizational support—reinforcing the need for continuing education and interprofessional practice. Conclusion: Caring for bereaved puerperal women demands technical-relational competencies centered on empathy, active listening, and continuity of care. The institutionalization of grief-sensitive protocols and ongoing team training are essential to provide comprehensive, ethical, and humanized care that minimizes adverse emotional outcomes and strengthens support networks.