[Privilage Makanda-Charambira]

#89720

As a nephrologist in a resource limited country I cannot offer all children who need dialysis this life saving treatment. One has to decide which children to give and those not to give. Its a tough decision because then you know the child is surely going to die soon. The hospital makes use of a standard questioner which has to be completed by a large team of health care workers as well as the parents and then use that to make a decision. This helps because the decision is not made by one person and the parents views are also taken into account. However it is still hard to inform the family and it eats on your emotions.

[Susan Sander]

#89859

Hi Privilege

These decisions must sometimes weigh hard on you. It is helpful to have a standard questionnaire and also include the opinions of parents, using this as the guiding document in the decision-making process. It is also beneficial that the decision does not rest solely on you. Maybe it could also be helpful to have a safe space or relationship where you can share your own experiences, doubts, and fears?

[Sue Boucher]

#90350

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and your views, Privilage. I can only imagine how these decisions weigh on you when you know that in different circumstances, lifesaving and life-prolonging options would be possible. I agree with Susan that the shared decision-making process you have is a good one where it is no-one’s sole responsibility to make a call. And don’t forget self-care!!

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