Ethical Issues in the Care of the Adolescent Transplant Recipient

This chapter will explore the ethical issues that arise in the care of the adolescent transplant recipient. We will explore the dilemmas that arise in four clinical situations: (1) the adolescent who refuses transplant, (2) the non-adherent teen who is being considered for transplant, (3) contraception for female transplant recipients and (4) transition from pediatric to adult care. Ethical issues will include (1) adolescent decision-making and developing capacity (2) measuring adherence and using it as a criterion for transplant eligibility (3) maternal-fetal conflict in the use of drugs with teratogenic potential and (4) ethical concerns that arise during transition from pediatric to adult care.