The dignified death of an “abortion” – bioethical discussion based on a clinical case

• Autor(a) principal: Santos, Anabela
• Data de Publicação: 2023
• Outros Autores: Gaudêncio, Ana Margarida, Bota, Mónica
• Tipo de documento: Artigo
• Idioma: por
• Título da fonte: Repositório Científico de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (Repositórios Cientìficos)
• Texto Completo: https://doi.org/10.34632/cadernosdesaude.2023.15899

Introduction: The prevalence of preterm birth has been increasing. As scientific and technological knowledge advances and the limits of viability expand, ethical questions and challenges arise for health professionals and parents. Aim: To promote an ethical reflection on issues and dilemmas involving parents and newborns near to the limit of viability. Materials and methods: Based on a clinical case, the authors intend to reflect on the literature and ethical principles. Discussion: The reflection of the clinical case allowed identifying the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, dignity, vulnerability, double effect and justice. The newborn does not have autonomy, and the parents assume this role during the decision – making process, which must be shared with the healthcare professionals involved. Conclusion: Prematurity raises complex ethical issues, which intersect with parental beliefs and values. Each premature infant is unique and it is impossible to accurately predict the course and prognosis of each one. The ethical problems in prematurity are based on the ultimate value of life, but consolidated on the principles of non-maleficence and beneficence. The discussion of these very sensitive themes must be pondered and reflected.