The ethics of in utero fetal surgery. A possible threat to the autonomy of pregnant women?

Abstract

Nurses caring for pregnant women must be aware of the developing capabilities of pediatric surgery to intervene in utero to attempt to correct fetal deformities once thought treatable only after birth. This technology may prove to be a source of ethical dilemmas for families and caretakers if some mothers refuse to consent to such beneficial surgery. Nurses caring for families in such a scenario must be aware not only of the rights and interests of both fetus and mother, but of the responsibilities of all of those interested--the family, the caregivers, and society. Full ethical analysis must include consideration of the effects of any decision on the overall health of the involved clients. While individual nurses will evaluate singular situations using different ethical guidelines, the primary ethical principle to be considered is how the autonomy of the individual pregnant woman is weighted vis a vis the interests of her fetus. Nurses are urged both in clinical practice and in the role of advocate regarding health policy to do their utmost to preserve the status of the individual as a respected, autonomous member of society.