What to do?

In a book entitled Facing Our Mistakes, David Hilfiker tells of caring for a pregnant woman in rural Minnesota. He was friendly with her and her husband and socialized with them. The pregnancy was highly desired by the couple.

Tests showed that the fetus had died. The woman felt pregnant. They waited a few weeks but there was no miscarriage though tests continued to say she was not still pregnant.

Ultrasound technology was new and scarce and over 100 miles away from his clinic. The woman was poor and had low quality transportation. Dr. H decided to not suggest she try to get to where ultrasound could be used.

Dr. H became worried that the dead fetus would cause her great harm and suggested a D & E.

He noted heavy bleeding during the procedure. Later the pathology report said the fetus had been alive and well. Should Dr. H tell her that?