Hand Castings of Children With Terminal Illnesses From Cancer Can Provide Comfort to Grieving Families

Abstract

Registered nurses have voluntarily created hand casts for families, providing comfort during challenging moments. Hand casting moves the patient's family and nurses. As requested by parents, staff apply a quick-drying gel to sick children's hands and feet. After preparing the gel mold, alginate molding powder is poured in and hardened for many days. Parents mourn their children with great sensitivity. Every mold and hospital bedside we go to offers closure to the lost child's dying moments. A compelling benefit of a three-dimensional hand-cast is preserving a passing moment.