An Ethical Analysis of Opt‐Out HIV Screening for Pregnant Women. Issue 4 (17th June 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wocial, Lucia D.; Cox, Elaine G.
• Is Part Of: Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing. Volume 42:Issue 4(2013)
• Page Start: 485
• Page End: 491
• Publication Date: 2013-06-17
• Subjects: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -- perinatal transmission -- ethics -- HIV testing -- opt out testing; Maternity nursing -- Periodicals; Gynecologic nursing -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Care -- Periodicals; Pediatric nursing -- Periodicals; Genital Diseases, Female -- nursing; Obstetrical Nursing; Pediatric Nursing; 618.2
• DOI: 10.1111/1552-6909.12224
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0884-2175

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Critical advances in prevention of mother‐to‐child‐transmission (MTCT) of the HIV in the perinatal period have changed practice recommendations for HIV screening for pregnant women. Using case studies we illustrate the ethical complexities and implications of opt‐out HIV testing for pregnant women. Despite the potential for compromised informed consent, an opt‐out HIV screening approach is ethically defensible.