The legal framework for end-of-life decisions in the UK.
We have reviewed the current UK guidance regarding withholding and withdrawing life-prolonging treatment in the infant and termination of pregnancy for fetal malformation. We provide summaries of the key cases. The framework provided by professional bodies and the law in this difficult area stresses the importance of good and frequent communication between different professional groups and parents with early recourse to second opinions if a difference of view emerges. Legal proceedings should be used only as a last resort.
Rennie
Janet M
JM
UCL Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London Hospitals, London, UK. janet.rennie@uclh.org
Leigh
Bertie
B
D000028:Abortion, Induced / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D005328:Fetal Viability; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D016743:Mental Competency / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D010290:Parents; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011247:Pregnancy; D006113:United Kingdom; D026712:Value of Life; D028761:Withholding Treatment / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*