Changing attitudes of neonatologists toward ventilator support.

: Two identical questionnaires were completed by neonatologists in Southern California, one in 1979 and the other in 1985. All questions addressed only the issue of ventilator support. Respondents were asked to assume both parents wished ventilator support withheld or discontinued. In 1985, despite parents' wishes, neonatologists were more willing to start and continue ventilator support in smaller and less mature infants than in 1979. In 1985, but not 1979, respondents frequently would use ventilator support significantly more than they thought they should. Additionally, in both 1979 and 1985 it was more difficult for respondents to withhold ventilator support in infants with acquired versus congenital problems.