Basic Ethical Principles for the Pediatric Nephrologist

To provide an overview of commonly applied ethical principles and discuss their usefulness and limitations in pediatric nephrology practice.

Advances in our understanding of pathophysiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics have increased our ability to treat pediatric kidney disease, but these benefits are not distributed equitably. Within pediatric nephrology there is increasing recognition of the impact of inequity and injustice upon our patients, their families, and our colleagues and a shared duty to address them.

While not always offering clear solutions, ethical principles provide support and guidance for pediatric nephrologists, patients, and families when encountering the challenges imposed by kidney disease and its treatments.