Module 3 - Ethics/Start of life

Question 1

What are the age limits for IVF in NZ for females and males?

Answer 1

39yrs - mother
55yrs - father

Question 2

What type of ethical issue is abortion?

Answer 2

Bioethical issue

Question 3

What are the 3 types of abortion in NZ?

Answer 3

1. Early Medical - meds at home
2. Medical - clinic & meds
3. Surgical - clinic

Question 4

List 3 positions on abortion in NZ

Answer 4

1. Conservative - opposes
2. Moderate - middle ground approach
3. Liberal - supports (fetus is not a person)

Question 5

Explain the Abortion Legislation Act 2020 and why it is relevant to nursing?

Answer 5

**decriminalised abortion in New Zealand

**Abortion is now treated as a health issue rather than a criminal one - comes under Minsitry of Health instead of Ministry of Justice.

**It allows for abortion up to 20 weeks’ gestation with the approval of a qualified health practitioner and after 20 weeks needs two HPs approval

**Don’t have to access a liscensed premises for an abortion

Question 6

Explain what the Gillick Competence is

Answer 6

Origin: Stemmed from the Gillick v West Norfolk and Wisbech Area Health Authority case in 1985.

Definition: Recognises minors under 16 who demonstrate maturity and understanding can make healthcare decisions without parental consent. They need to understand info given, retain it long enough, weigh up rights and wrongs and be able to communicate their decision

Application: Nurses must assess Gillick competence to determine if minors can provide valid consent for medical treatment or procedures.

Question 7

Examples in NZ of Gillick Competence

Answer 7

HPV VACCINE IN SCHOOL

POTENTIAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY IN A NON-CONSENTING MINOR