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Bioethics for clinicians: 9. Involving children in medical decisions
C Harrison1, N P Kenny, M Sidarous
1Bioethics Department, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ont. christine.harrison@mailhub.sickkids.on.ca
Summary
Physicians face ethical challenges when involving children in medical decisions. A family-centered approach respects children's growing autonomy and decision-making capacity within their family relationships.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Ethics
- Bioethics
- Medical Decision-Making
Background:
- Medical decisions for children traditionally involve parents and physicians.
- Children's developing autonomy is increasingly recognized in healthcare settings.
Observation:
- Involving children in medical decisions presents ethical challenges for healthcare teams.
- Physicians must collaborate with families and other practitioners.
Findings:
- A family-centered approach is crucial for navigating these complex decisions.
- This approach acknowledges the parent-child relationship, child vulnerability, and developing capacity.
Implications:
- Enhances ethical practice in pediatric healthcare.
- Supports shared decision-making models that respect children's evolving rights.
- Promotes better patient-centered care by integrating the child's perspective.