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Ethical decision making in perinatal asphyxia
1Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Clinics in Perinatology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Defining perinatal asphyxia presents challenges, but clarifying clinical concerns simplifies ethical questions. Effective physician-parent communication is key for managing life-and-death decisions, ensuring sound medical practice and parental autonomy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Neonatal Medicine
- Clinical Practice
Background:
- Perinatal asphyxia lacks a clear definition, complicating clinical and ethical considerations.
- Physician-parent communication regarding critical neonatal care decisions is often challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the difficulties in defining perinatal asphyxia.
- To clarify ethical questions once the central clinical concern is identified.
- To examine procedural and ethical issues in physician-parent dialogues about life-and-death decisions.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of definitions and ethical frameworks.
- Review of communication strategies in critical care settings.
Main Results:
- Defining perinatal asphyxia is complex and impacts ethical clarity.
- Physician communication strategies significantly influence the handling of ethical dilemmas.
- Effective dialogue facilitates sound medical practice, parental autonomy, and patient best interests.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the definition of perinatal asphyxia is crucial for ethical clarity.
- Improved physician-parent communication is essential for navigating difficult neonatal decisions.
- Successful communication minimizes conflict and upholds patient welfare and parental rights.
Keywords:
Death and Euthanasia