What function does the public health nurse (PHN) perform?
The PHN is the case manager who provides coordination of any services following a presumed SIDS death. Within three (3) working days of receiving notification from the coroner’s office, a PHN is required to contact the parents or caregiver. Contact can be a face-to-face visit, group visit or telephone call. Whenever possible, the PHN should schedule a home visit to provide the parents or caregiver with SIDS information and offer bereavement support such as: referral to local SIDS support groups; counseling; or assistance with funeral arrangements.
