How should we approach parental refusals of opioids on behalf of children in the perioperative setting? A practical approach based on ethical theory.

This article describes ethical theory related to the refusal of treatment by parents on behalf of their children, and when it is justified to override parental decisions. We propose a decision-making framework that focuses on improving communication and considering alternatives. Assessment of harm to the child from avoiding opioids, as well as potential harms from overriding parental autonomy must be undertaken prior to considering overriding parents. PMID: 32485043 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Paediatric Anaesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Tags: Paediatr Anaesth Source Type: research