Exploring the Physician Experience of Death and Non-Death Loss in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract Objective We aimed to understand the physician experience of patient loss in the NICU, including the impact of these events, the coping mechanisms utilized, and the evolution of this experience over the career span. Study Design: Neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows and neonatologists were recruited in Massachusetts for semi-structured Zoom interviews. Thematic analysis of the transcripts allowed for identification of representative quotes. Results In a cohort of 41 participants, impactful losses involved emotional connection, weight of responsibility, and/or unexpected challenges. Most participants described maintaining or increasing optimism about patient outcomes over time. The majority reported that responsibilities related to patient loss improve professional fulfillment but also pose challenges to wellbeing. Peer support was nearly universally mentioned as a coping mechanism. Barriers to coping included other work responsibilities and an unsupportive environment. Conclusion These results provide valuable insight into the neonatologist experience of patient loss and suggest avenues for future intervention minded research.