Article: Parental decision-making following a prenatal diagnosis that is lethal, life-limiting or has long term implications for the future child and family: a meta-synthesis of qualitative literature

A systematic review of the literature was carried out to explore the influencing factors for parents considering termination or continuation of pregnancy following identification of lethal, life-limiting or severely debilitating fetal abnormalities.  Twenty four papers were identified with 3 key themes identified under the headings of: 'All life is precious', hope for a positive outcome' and 'a life worth living'.  This comprehensive review revealed factors such as hope, morality and potential implications of their own and other's quality of life are all aspects health professionals should be aware of to enable facilitated supported decision making.

Blakeley, C et al. 2019.  Parental decision-making following a prenatal diagnosis that is lethal, life-limiting or has long term implications for the future child and family: a meta-synthesis of qualitative literature.  BMC Medical Ethics.

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