You are counseling a set of 17-year-old parents,whose baby is about to be born at 23 weeks' gestation. You have explained the chance of survival is low and that if the baby survives there is a high likelihood of long-term morbidity.The parents understand your discussion and clearly request that you provide life-sustaining treatment in the delivery room.How might you answer them?
The main thing that you have to clarify in such a situation is the respect that you have for the parents' decision. It is important to let them know that you understand the instructions, and that they are the only ones entitled to make the right decision for their baby. Moreover, you should let them know that you will support their decision.
