1. Difficult Decisions In Caring for a Child with Life-Threatening Illness
Out of the decisions listed, personally, I can imagine that the decision to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatments would be the most challenging for many individuals. This decision involves grappling with the idea of potentially ending a child’s life, even though it may be in their best interest to avoid prolonging suffering. It requires weighing the ethical, emotional, and moral implications of such a choice.
Deciding to discontinue feeds at the end of a child’s life can also be emotionally taxing. It involves accepting that the child’s journey is coming to an end and allowing them to pass away peacefully without artificial means of sustenance.
Choosing Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) or Allow Natural Death (AND) is another tough decision that involves accepting the natural course of events and opting not to intervene in certain situations, even if it means letting go.
Lastly, utilizing sedation at the end of life can be a difficult decision as well. It involves managing the child’s pain and ensuring comfort while understanding that sedation might hasten the dying process.