“Perinatal loss, a devastating cyclone”: A situation-specific nursing theory

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to develop a preliminary theory that explores in depth into understanding the experiences of women who have suffered a spontaneous perinatal loss during any trimester of their pregnancy regarding their emotional response to this loss.

Design

A grounded theory approach was used, and 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with Spanish women who suffered a spontaneous perinatal loss.

Methods

Theoretical sampling and constant comparative analysis were used to reach theoretical saturation. EQUATOR guidelines were followed, using the COREQ checklist.

Results

The “Perinatal loss, a devastating cyclone,” a situation-specific nursing theory, explains the process that a woman experiences when she loses her baby at any stage of pregnancy, drawing an analogy with tropical cyclones as natural disasters that destroy everything in their path. This situation-specific theory includes three dimensions, explaining the phases identified in the perinatal loss process (phase prior to impact [before the perinatal loss], impact phase [diagnostic moment], emergency phase [hospital care], relief or honeymoon phase [return home], disillusionment or stock-taking phase [after the first postloss days at home], reconstruction and recovery phase [grief construction process] and consequences [with an eye to the future]). Three intervention areas were described around the perinatal loss process: “rescue area” (partner, grandparents, and siblings of the deceased baby), “relief area” (healthcare professionals), and “base camp” (society).

Conclusion

The situation-specific nursing theory “Perinatal loss, a devastating cyclone” is the final product of a grounded theory study that provided an in-depth analysis of women's experiences when they suffer a spontaneous perinatal loss at any point in their pregnancy.

Clinical Relevance

The situation-specific theory “Perinatal loss, a devastating cyclone” with the seven identified phases and the three areas of intervention could be used as a framework for healthcare professionals in their clinical practice as a guide to support women in this disfranchised grief.