Moral Issue of Birth Deformities

Mevelle L. Asuncion, RN

College of NursingCentral Mindanao University

DefinitionDefectsMalformationsAbnormalities of a child present

at birth

2 kinds

1. Genetic1. Hereditary,2. Genetic material is deformed3. From the carrier of a defective gene

2. Congenital1. Non-hereditary2. Genetic or physical damage during

the process of fetal development

Causes of Congenital Deformity1. Radiation2. Drugs3. Chemicals

1. Mercury

4. Nutritional deficiency/undernourishment

5. Biological disease agent1. Virus2. spirochetes

Types of Deformities

1. Trisomy 212. Spina Bifida Occulta3. Hydrocephaly4. Anencephaly5. Esophageal atresia/duodenal

atresia

TRISOMY 21DOWN’S

SYNDROMEMentally

retarded IQ of 50-80Large tongueBroad skullUpward slant of

eyelidsSimean crease

SPINA BIFIDA OCCULTAOpening in the

spineParalysis below

the hipsNo control of

bowel and bladder habits

ANENCEPHALYWithout brainBrain is partially

and totally absent

No hope for improvement, will eventually die

HYDROCEPHALUSWater in the

headSpinal canal is

blocked, accumulation of fluid in between the meninges of the brain

Surgical shunt is needed

ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA

Deformed baby can’t decide for himself/herself

Doctors who are aware should give all informations regarding the disease condition, complications, treatment, and possibility of survival

APPLICATION OF EHTICAL THEORIES

Natural laws ◦Most terribly malformed baby has

the right to life and must be respected

◦Against commission or omission◦Extraordinary measures can be done

if the family can supportKantian principles

◦Die with dignity◦Malformed baby lack rationality

APPLICATION OF EHTICAL THEORIES

Ross Ethics◦Prima facie duty- let the family

decide with the doctor and health team

Fletcher◦Agrees by terminating life of the

severely ill baby and defective fetus◦Depends upon situation

APPLICATION OF ETHICAL THEORIES

Utilitarianism◦Greatest good for the greatest

number of people◦Justify act of commission of

terminating a fetus or a deformed baby with the following reasons: Personal Social

APPLICATION OF ETHICAL THEORIES

Pragmatism◦Usefulness◦Practicability◦Based upon parents financial

resources