Ethical Considerations in Neonatal Resuscitation Flashcards
6 cards from real NRP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Ethical Considerations in Neonatal Resuscitation flashcards as text
According to NRP guidelines, when is it appropriate to withhold resuscitation in the delivery room?
Answer: When gestational age is confirmed at less than 22 weeks or birth weight is less than 400g
NRP guidelines support withholding resuscitation when gestational age is less than 22 weeks or birth weight is less than 400g, as survival is very unlikely and the burden of treatment is high.
What does the NRP recommend regarding informed consent for resuscitation in the delivery room?
Answer: Consent is implied in emergency situations; prenatal counseling when possible is preferred
In emergencies, consent for resuscitation is implied. However, NRP emphasizes the importance of prenatal counseling and shared decision-making before anticipated high-risk deliveries.
Which gestational age range is considered a 'gray zone' requiring individualized decision-making according to NRP?
Answer: 22–25 weeks
Infants born at 22–25 weeks gestation fall into the 'gray zone' where outcomes are highly variable, and individualized decision-making based on clinical factors and family preferences is recommended.
When should a resuscitation team consider discontinuing resuscitative efforts in a newborn?
Answer: If there is no detectable heart rate after 10 minutes of complete and adequate resuscitation
NRP guidelines suggest that if there is no detectable heart rate after 10 minutes of complete and adequate resuscitation, it is appropriate to consider discontinuing efforts, as survival is unlikely and severe disability is probable.
In the context of neonatal resuscitation, what is the principle of 'non-maleficence'?
Answer: Avoid interventions that are more likely to cause harm than benefit
Non-maleficence means 'do no harm.' In neonatal resuscitation, this principle guides decisions about when aggressive interventions may cause more suffering than benefit, especially in extreme prematurity or lethal anomalies.
How should a resuscitation team handle a situation where parents' wishes conflict with the medical team's assessment of the infant's best interest?
Answer: Engage in open communication, involve ethics consultation if needed, and seek consensus
NRP emphasizes open, compassionate communication and shared decision-making. When conflicts arise, ethics consultation and team-based discussion are recommended to reach a consensus that respects both family values and the infant's best interests.