Group support for parents of high risk neonates: an interdisciplinary approach.

Many parents are unable to develop a satisfying relationship with their sick newborn. Although data are divided over the critical nature of the attachment process, measures to assist parents and reduce socio-environmental stresses are considered desirable. Group support is one such measure which can provide parents with a commonly needed component of neonatal intensive care. In the group described, weekly sessions are informal, encouraging discussion, an understanding of neonatal care and recognition that some emotional and coping disturbance is normal. Staff involved are an interdisciplinary team (social worker, doctor and nurse). The group requires no special funding and time commitment is low considering the support provided. We have met weekly for five years with sustained attendance. No control group exists but parents appear increasingly comfortable in the nursery and able to achieve more meaningful and ongoing interaction with their infant and the staff.

Abortion counseling in a general hospital.

Given the increase in the number of abortions being performed in hospitals throughout the United States and Canada, there is an obvious need for counseling programs for these patients. The authors describe one such program, and emphasize the importance of close working relationships between the counselors and their supervising staff.