title: In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer dilemmas.
abstract: A relatively new and rapidly expanding technology for the production of viable offspring is in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer. The ethical issues surrounding this technology--the status of the embryo, cryopreservation, and the selection of IVF recipients--are explored. These issues and the resulting dilemmas need to be examined by each individual nurse as the unique needs of IVF couples are a challenge to the nursing profession. Many questions arise regarding the role of the nurse in this new dimension of health care.
authors.affiliation: Neonatal Intensive Care, Childrens Hospital, Columbus, OH.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Marmaduke
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Bell
mesh_terms: D033421:Beginning of Human Life; D015925:Cryopreservation; D004624:Embryo Transfer; D004993:Ethics, Nursing; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D019369:Life; D009732:Nursing Care; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D018579:Patient Selection; D028723:Personhood; D018570:Risk Assessment; D026712:Value of Life