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Buy-in and breakthroughs: the Overton window in neonatology for the resuscitation of extremely preterm infants

Journal of Perinatology volume 43, pages 1548–1551 (2023)Cite this article

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Abstract

To understand the future of neonatology, it is important to reflect upon the past and the factors that lead to significant advances in the field. In this article, we explore the evolving landscape of neonatology and the shifting practices in the resuscitation of extremely premature infants, with a particular focus on societal influences that have driven these changes. Using the political policy concept of an Overton Window, we explore how breakthroughs move from unthinkable to acceptable practice and how the increasing involvement of parents and their advocacy efforts have played a pivotal role in that progress. In the era of expanded shared decision making, it is crucial that we apply that same approach to setting priorities in our field, acknowledging the crucial perspectives of both parents and former premature infants in shaping the future of neonatology.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, USA

    Jeanne A. Krick

  2. Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Evanston Hospital, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA

    Dalia M. Feltman

  3. Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA

    Dalia M. Feltman

  4. Division of Neonatology, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA

    Brian S. Carter

  5. Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA

    Brian S. Carter

  6. Departments of Humanities & Bioethics and Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA

    Brian S. Carter

Authors
  1. Jeanne A. Krick
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  2. Dalia M. Feltman
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  3. Brian S. Carter
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Contributions

All three authors discussed the general idea of the paper. JAK then drafted the paper. DMF and BSC provided feedback and revisions. All authors approved of the final paper.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jeanne A. Krick.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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Krick, J.A., Feltman, D.M. & Carter, B.S. Buy-in and breakthroughs: the Overton window in neonatology for the resuscitation of extremely preterm infants. J Perinatol 43, 1548–1551 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41372-023-01755-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41372-023-01755-9

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