Ethical aspects of the institutionalization process of children from outbreaks of tuberculosis

Abstract

Abstract.The Republic of Moldova is the country with the highest incidence of tuberculosis in the European WHO region. The severity of this epidemic is conditioned by socio-economic problems. Children are exposed to the TB pathogen when interacting with infected family members. In socially vulnerable families, the education and overall care of the child is often neglected.Children are at risk of malnutrition, which increases their susceptibility to tuberculosis.Even if the family is considered the most suitable environment for the development of a child, there are cases when children must be entrusted to care institutions. A mixed, quantitative (grid application) and qualitative (observation and individual interviews) study was conducted to assess the degree of respect for ethical principles and the rights of the institutionalized children.Two phtisiopneumological rehabilitation centers for children from families with tuberculosis were evaluated.The study identified that institutionalization does not appear as a form of protection, but as a limitation of children`s rights.Stigmatization and discrimination of children is a common phenomenon. Children’s access to adequate education and health services is limited.Even if these children are not suffering from tuberculosis, they were unjustly isolated, reducing their contact with the family or relatives, as well as with society in general.Children aren’t encouraged to have an opinion, their access to information being insufficient.Gaps have been highlighted that need to be addressed without delay to ensure adequate conditions for the protection of children from families with tuberculosis, respecting their personality, in a non-discriminatory manner, based on moral values and fundamental child` rights.