Availability and effectiveness of interventions to support healthcare professionals exposed to patient pregnancy and neonatal loss: a systematic review.
TL;DR
Interventions that enhance preparedness, peer support and compassion satisfaction delivered within psychologically safe workplaces, show promise but implementation must be supported by psychologically safe workplace environments.
Abstract
Background
Healthcare professionals (HCPs) exposed to pregnancy and neonatal loss experience considerable emotional and psychological burden; however, the availability and effectiveness of interventions to support them remain unclear.
Objective
This systematic review aimed to identify interventions for staff exposed to pregnancy and neonatal loss and examine their acceptability and effectiveness. SEARCH STRATEGY Conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251090187), MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and CINAHL were searched from 2000 to 28 July 2025. SELECTION CRITERIA Qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies conducted in high-income countries were eligible. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were synthesised narratively and presented using forest plots and an evidence gap map. Qualitative findings were analysed using thematic synthesis. MAIN
Results
Forty-seven studies were included. Eight formal interventions and multiple intervention components were identified, including training, peer support, debriefing, organisational support, coping strategies and interventions promoting compassion satisfaction. Quantitative evidence consisted primarily of cross-sectional studies. Qualitative synthesis generated seven themes: acceptability of intervention packages; organisational support and workplace context; personal coping strategies and informal support; peer support; meaning making and compassion satisfaction; Every experience helps with the next: building preparedness for bereavement care; and debriefing and reflective practice;
Conclusions
HCPs exposed to pregnancy and neonatal loss require both preventative and post-event support. Interventions that enhance preparedness, peer support and compassion satisfaction delivered within psychologically safe workplaces, show promise but implementation must be supported by psychologically safe workplace environments.