Cannabis Oil in an Irish Children's Critical Care Unit

ABSTRACT

Aims We present a case of a five-year-old female admitted postoperatively to the Paediatric Critical Care Unit with a history of refractory seizures for which her parents were administering cannabis oil. Methods We discuss the issues surrounding cannabis prescription in Ireland and the role of parental autonomy in medication selection and administration. Results An administration regime was agreed upon following discussion with the child's parents. Conslusion While this case raised ethical and legal issues, we must also consider parental autonomy and their role as advocate for their child during admission to critical care.