RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Are We Allowed to Discontinue Medical Treatment in This Child? JF Pediatrics JO Pediatrics FD American Academy of Pediatrics SP peds.2014-0548 DO 10.1542/peds.2014-0548 A1 Leeuwenburgh-Pronk, Wendela G. A1 Miller-Smith, Laura A1 Forman, Vicki A1 Lantos, John D. A1 Tibboel, Dick A1 Buysse, Corinne YR 2015 UL http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2015/01/28/peds.2014-0548.abstract AB One of the most difficult ethical dilemmas in pediatrics today arises when a child has complex chronic conditions that are not curable and cause discomfort with no prospect of any improvement on quality of life. In the context of medical futility, it is harmful to prolong medical treatment. The question is: How can medical treatment be discontinued when the child is not dependent on mechanical ventilation or ICU treatment? What is the appropriate palliative care and does it justify the use of sedatives or analgesics if this also might shorten life?