Table 4.
Stage 2: deliberation.
| Coded behaviors | From neonatologist to parents | From parents to neonatologist | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cases (n = 12) N (%) | Illustrative quotes | Cases (n = 12) N (%) | Illustrative quotes | |
| 0. Situation defined as decision-making situation | 12 (100%) | “Hopefully, the situation will not progress, because if it gets worse and Katie's situation deteriorates, we need to discuss how much intensive care is sensible.” (#1) | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 1. Asking which role in decision-making would be preferred | 0 (0%) | —– | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 2. Providing information about which role in decision-making would be preferred | 1 (8%) | “Well, in most cases, we decide together with the family.” (#11) | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 3. Asking about values and preferences regarding continuation or discontinuation | 9 (75%) | “This is the moment, one needs to consider, we together, need to consider what our hopes and goals for Paula are, what do you wish for Paula?” (#8) | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 4. Providing information about values and preferences regarding continuation or discontinuation | 10 (83%) | “We could keep him alive on the respirator, but I do not think that is the right thing for Mohammed.” (#10) | 7 (58%) | “In my opinion, we have to give it a try. To be honest, well of course, I'm not a doctor, but to say now; we won't do anything anymore, I cannot find it in my heart.” (#4) |
| 5. Expressing objections to the other's preferences | 0 (0%) | —– | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 6. Inviting to share emotions | 1 (8%) | “What do you worry about the most?” (#4) | 0 (0%) | —– |
| 7. Expressing emotions of grief, fear, despair, and frustration | 0 (0%) | —– | 7 (58%) | “[crying] well, we'll probably have to let her go, let her go in peace.” (#1) |
| 8. Acknowledging emotions | 1 (8%) | “I know, this insecurity is frightful.” (#8) | 0 (0%) | —– |