What ethical principles guide the resuscitation of a newborn?

The ethical principles that guide the resuscitation of a newborn are indeed largely the same as those followed in older child or adult resuscitation. This is because fundamental ethical frameworks, such as beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), autonomy, and justice, apply across all age groups. In resuscitation scenarios, healthcare providers are obliged to act in a manner that maximizes the chance of survival and positively impacts the patient's well-being, regardless of their age.

Newborns, despite their age and developmental stage, are entitled to the same standards of care and respect as older patients. While there may be specific considerations, such as the nuances of communication with families and the differing medical needs of neonates, the underlying ethical principles guiding medical decisions remain consistent across all ages. This commonality emphasizes the importance of providing equitable care and adhering to established medical guidelines that prioritize patient outcomes.

In contrast, focusing solely on medical procedures does not encompass the relational and ethical dimensions necessary for effective patient care, especially in sensitive situations involving infants and their families. Prioritizing parental consent over immediate medical need could lead to delayed intervention in critical situations, and stating that the ethics guiding resuscitation for newborns is different