A 12-year-old child has failed several courses of chemotherapy.An experimental drug is available that his parents want him to receive.He has told his parents and the oncologists that he is ready to die and does not want any more chemotherapy.The nurse recognizes what to be true?

Question

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This is a family issue that requires support to help both parents and child resolve the conflict.Because the child has little chance of survival,many institutions support the child's right to refuse or assent to therapy.The institution can obtain a court order to support the child's decision if verified by the oncologists.Twelve-year-olds can give consent for therapy under certain conditions,including being an emancipated minor and receiving therapy for birth control and sexually transmitted infections.Right to self-determination is also accepted if the child is fully aware of the consequences of the actions.The practitioners cannot take the responsibility for decision making from the parent or child.Parents have the responsibility for decision making,but certain circumstances do limit their authority.

A 12-Year-Old Child Has Failed Several Courses of Chemotherapy