Table 3

Consensus rates procedural statements and the role of the parents round 1 and 2

Round 1 (n=16)AgreementRound 2 (n=14)Agreement
There should be a procedure/guideline to assess capacity regarding a request for euthanasia in children under the age of 12. 100%
The assessment of capacity is a team decision which must involve the entire medical treatment team including nurses and psychologists. 81%
Should it become possible for children under the age of 12 to have a request for euthanasia honoured, the capacity must be assessed by a second independent expert, such as a child psychiatrist or child psychologist.69% A second independent expert must be consulted when assessing the capacity of children under the age of 12. 85%
When in doubt about the capacity of children under the age of 12, a second independent expert must be consulted. 100%
The opinion and explanations of loved ones are relevant when assessing a patient’s (regardless of age) capacity regarding a request for euthanasia.62% The parents’ opinion and explanations are relevant and should always be considered when assessing their child’s capacity. However, their opinion need not be decisive. 86%
  • Note: bold denotes that 80% consensus was achieved.