Ethics Barometer

Scenario: You have been appointed to serve on a national panel to substantiate a recommendation for mandatory HIV testing for every newborn. It is hoped that early treatment will save lives and decrease the spread of HIV. Using the country NIGERIA, prepare an argument supporting or refuting mandatory testing of newborns, including addressing the following questions:
1) Describe the birth rate of HIV positive infants
2) Should consent for newborn testing be obtained from parents? Discuss 3 pros (reason for testing) and 3 cons (reasons against testing) and support responses with evidence-based literature written within the last 5 years.
3) Should parents be permitted to decline testing for their child, why or why not?
4) If newborns test positive, what types of treatment are available in Nigeria?
5) Describe the economic impact of HIV treatment in Nigeria and whether testing newborns would reduce or increase the economic and health care burden.
6) Discuss the cultural considerations and ethical principles that would both support and create a barrier impacting the citizens of Nigeria to adopt your recommendations.
7) Discuss your opinion of the overall impact that your recommendation would have on Nigeria.
Use a minimum of 2 peer reviewed journal articles.