Controversies in the resuscitation of infants of borderline viability

Awhonn'S Clinical Issues in Perinatal and Women'S Health Nursing
|January 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Resuscitating extremely preterm infants (500-750g) presents ethical challenges due to mixed outcomes. Key solutions include preventing preterm birth and establishing clear guidelines for borderline viable infant care.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Perinatal Technology
  • Bioethics

Background:

  • Advances in perinatal technology create ethical dilemmas concerning the resuscitation of extremely preterm infants (500-750g).
  • Literature shows varied outcomes for these infants, with both poor and positive results documented.
  • The borderline viable infant poses significant ethical and clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the ethical dilemmas surrounding the resuscitation of extremely preterm infants.
  • To explore strategies for managing borderline viable infants.
  • To formulate resolutions for ethical concerns in neonatal resuscitation.

Main Methods:

  • A point/counterpoint format was used to examine issues related to borderline viable infants.
  • Literature review was conducted to assess outcomes and strategies.
  • Ethical considerations and clinical management options were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • There is a lack of consensus on outcomes for infants between 500 and 750 grams.
  • Ethical challenges persist regarding the initiation and withdrawal of treatment.
  • Various strategies for managing these infants have been proposed.

Conclusions:

  • Prevention of preterm birth is a critical first step.
  • Pre-delivery discussion of resuscitation plans and the option to withdraw treatment are essential.
  • Establishing definitive care guidelines and a standardized definition of quality of life are crucial for ethical decision-making.