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The ethics of withholding and withdrawing dialysis therapy in infants

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Abstract 

Pediatric nephrologists may encounter infants with renal failure who have either unexpectedly survived lung hypoplasia at birth or whose renal failure could be treated but comorbid conditions exist. As a member of the health care team, the pediatric nephrologist may be asked to guide therapeutic intervention with parents, family members, and other care-givers. We present a case study that illustrates some of the difficulties that may arise when conflicting social and economic pressures, as well as public opinion and legal authority, enter the decision-making process. Clinical, theoretical, legal, and economic considerations involved in the ethical decision process are presented. Some tentative guidelines for approaching such dilemmas are offered bearing in mind a goal of consensual decision making.

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Received: 24 March 1999 / Revised: 28 September 1999 / Accepted: 5 October 1999

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Shooter, M., Watson, A. The ethics of withholding and withdrawing dialysis therapy in infants. Pediatr Nephrol 14, 347–351 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004670050773

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004670050773

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