When Parents Say No: Religious and Cultural Influences on Pediatric Healthcare

Pediatric trauma and intensive care units are populated with children from all walks of life who speak various languages and have different customs and religious practices. They look to their parents to be their voice and to keep them safe. Parents are usually a valued part of the pediatric healthcare team. But what happens when those parents appear to be acting as adversaries rather than advocates? What happens when parents seek to follow their cultural or religious customs to aid their child’s recovery, and those practices prohibit or delay modern medical treatments? This book belongs in the hands of every pediatric healthcare professional, as well as social services professionals and clergy who deal with children and their families in these situations. Inside, you will learn: * The background of 31 religious organizations that have established objections to medical treatments or diagnostic procedures. * Other factors that influence parental refusal of medical treatment. * The role of religious and cultural beliefs in modern healthcare. * Ways to effectively respond to a treatment refusal situation. * How to understand children’s rights and the legal and ethical implications of pediatric healthcare. * When and how to seek legal advice.