When a parent
refuses treatment for their child, it can be frustrating and hard to accept. As
someone who takes care of people for a living, it goes against everything that
you stand for to not treat someone in need, especially a vulnerable child.
However, blaming yourself is the last thing that you should do.
Not only does
the blame lie with the parents, but you have also done the best that you can to
take care of your patient. It is not your fault that the parents are willing to
stand by and watch their child suffer. In many other countries, they would be
going to jail.
Unfortunately,
in the United States, religious freedom is more important than a lot of things.
Even if there is sensible evidence and substantial proof, anything can heppen.
Even if there may be good intentions behind the refusal for treatment, there is
no good reason to let a child die.
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How is it
freedom if a child is unable to decide for themselves to be treated or die a
slow, painful, death – praying that it will go away whether it is what they
want to or not? A fundamental problem here is the belief that children do not
have any authority over anything, not even their own bodies. Freedom should
come in all forms, and should not be limited to adults and those who are seen
to 'know better.'
Obviously this
does not mean that children should be allowed to do whatever they like. It
merely suggests that their health and well-being should not be put in danger
because of the beliefs of their parents. Children should be able to have their
own beliefs and the fundamental right to be involved in their own health and
care.
When it comes to
parenting, no one likes to be told how to raise their child. The protective
nature of a parent can be interlaced with the belief that medicines, even
vaccinations, are bad. When this happens, a very serious lack of healthcare
develops, and the child becomes vulnerable.
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You are not
responsible for how parents raise and treat their children. All that you can do
is spread awareness and let the parents know everything about what is going on
with their child. Convincing them will not likely be possible.
After all, it is
not right to try to change someone's beliefs, especially since it is seen as
unprofessional in this kind of setting. If you feel compelled to rant about it,
talk to someone. A fellow nurse or medical professional will likely empathize
with you on a personal level since, unfortunately, this happens somewhat
commonly.
The
nature of this is all very sensitive and complicated. The last thing you want
to do is insult someone, but being firm about suggested treatment is all that
you can really do. It is hard, and will break your heart as time passes by, but
keep in mind that it is not your fault, and that blaming yourself will get you
nowhere.
Respect the
parent's wishes, even if you disagree with them. It is their legal right to
decide how to take care of their child. Since you have no legal bounds to do
anything, it is best to let it be and blame the system if you have to.
Related: International
Nurses Association
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