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When delivery threatens to occur from 22 through 26 weeks' gestation (defined as periviable) and parents are confronted with the uncertainty of neonatal survival, discussions about treatments and outcomes are critical. In a qualitative study of preferred approaches to provision of information and support, 40 women at high risk for periviable deliveries (42 newborns) agreed to be interviewed before and after delivery at one of three tertiary care hospitals with level 3 neonatal intensive care units. Fourteen fathers and 52 healthcare providers also were interviewed.
Parents focused on two major themes: the importance of providing information and the need for support. Most (70%) felt that receiving clear information so they could understand th…