Genetic controversies

Question 1

• To reflect critically on ethical dilemmas using different scenarios in the clinical genetic setting
• To be aware of some of the ethical implications associated with pre-natal diagnosis, e.g. turner’s syndrome
• To be self-aware of the personal impact of supporting patients with complex ethical decisions around their care

Answer 1

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Question 2

What issues to consider if someone comes in wanting to discuss being tested for a genetic disease

Answer 2

Ask what they know about the condition

If they plan on having children

Impact of testing on self (mental wellbeing may decline), family and work (may stop caring about job because they think they’re going to die anyway)

Question 3

Ethical implications associated with pre-natal diagnosis, e.g. turner’s syndrome

Answer 3

Couple may want to terminate

Conflict between respecting maternal autonomy versus acting beneficially toward the foetus

If there’s a need for proxy decision makers for the foetus if there are doubts about a mother’s capacity

Question 4

Ethical issues of parents as carriers

Answer 4

Not telling their children that could be a carrier too

Question 5

Important to offer what support following genetic testing or prenatal diagnoses

Answer 5

Adequate counselling - options, future plan etc