Topic: Giving the Diagnosis Copy
When the doctor describes the diagnosis, notice that he is straightforward, empathic, and balanced in the information he provides.
Video Transcript
Mr. Abbott: This is a shock, doctor. I knew this was a
possibility, but really thought the odds were in our favor. We had so many
hopes for this child; this is not what we bargained for. (Mrs. Abbott is
silent, but softly crying).
Dr. Thomas: We don’t know why this happens in some
pregnancies, but not others. Down syndrome is more common with increased age,
but there is nothing that you did to cause this. However, I think it is
important that you make your decision with the best information we can give
you.
Mrs. Abbott (softly, to her husband): Nick, I don’t know
what we are going to do. After all of these years of trying, and finally
getting pregnant, this does not seem fair. We may never have another chance to
have a child. Why did this have to turn out this way?
Mrs. Abbott (suddenly turning to Dr. Thomas): Doctor, what do you think we should do? What kind of life can our child have? Do you think we should end this pregnancy?
?Decision Point: What would you say next?
Important issues:
- The doctor should not tell them what to do.
- The doctor should acknowledge that this is a
difficult and very personal decision for them to make. - The doctor should advise them to take time to
learn about Down syndrome.
Suggested Response
That is a question that only you and your husband can answer. But before you make a decision, you need to take time to learn about Down syndrome.