Pitt Pediatrics congratulates Kelly Harris, MD, MS for her recent publications in Children and the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. Harris is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine in our Division of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care. 
The first publication in Children is titled, “Discussion of the Fetus in Fetal Cardiology Consultations: A Qualitative Study,” where Harris served as senior author. Co-authors include Samantha Syme (University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine) and Kelsey Schweiberger, MD, MS (Division of General Academic Pediatrics), among others from the University of Pittsburgh and other institutions across the country.
This research observed the communications between clinicians and families during consultations of fetal cardiology following prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease. While these diagnoses are increasingly common, this study worked to fill the knowledge gap of how the fetus is discussed in this context.
Ultimately, the study concluded that fetal cardiology clinicians generally use personal terminology when referring to the fetus during initial consultations, but familial preferences need to be evaluated in order to optimize communication and proper support.
The second and more recent publication, titled, “How Clinicians Prenatally Discuss Management Options and Outcomes for Congenital Heart Disease,” was published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management in late November, with Harris again serving as senior author. This research further explored the communication issues around prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease between clinician and patient. Conclusions identified opportunities for increased presentation and integration of palliative care consultants, as well as where ongoing efforts should be focused for future family-centered counseling and resources.
Follow Pitt Pediatrics on Bluesky for future updates on faculty publications and research.