Advances in neonatal medicine have dramatically improved the survival chances of premature infants, yet survival can come at a high cost. Many such infants experience severe and often life-threatening health problems, and their parents and caregivers may confront enormously difficult and troubling decisions.
This compelling documentary follows one couple and their premature twin sons over the course of six months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Without narration or preaching, it allows viewers to experience and share in the dilemmas confronted by the parents and by their nurses, physicians, social worker and hospital chaplain. It will be a powerful tool for discussion for students and professionals in healthcare and the social services.
NOTE: This is an updated and shorted version of the 58-minute 1998 original Dreams and Dilemmas.
Study Guide available.
NOTE: This is a 40 minute version of the film. A complete transcript of the original 58-minute version (1998) is available for download.
'A compelling narrative which raises many ethical and professional issues relevant to healthcare workers. Excellent examples of teamwork and communication with the family.' International Congress on the Care of the Terminally Ill
'Captures the almost unbearable stress of any neonatal ICU, and the pressure parents experience when they must make complex life and death decisions. Highly recommended for use with healthcare professionals, nursing and medical students, and classes in biomedical ethics.' Religious Studies Review
'A riveting story of one family's struggle with medical, ethical, financial, and practical issues surrounding their premature twin sons. This program will be fascinating to anyone with an interest in the issues of healthcare ethics.' MC Journal
Citation
Main credits
Kahn, Richard (film producer)
Kahn, Richard (photographer)
Kahn, Richard (film editor)