The selective nontreatment of handicapped newborns is an issue that has been of prominent legal debate since the 1982 Department of Health and Human Services 'Baby Doe Regulations It is also an issue of great ethical debate This article analyzes the dilemma using the principle of nonmaleficence In addition the related constructs of ordinary versus extraordinary care, the quahfications of personhood, and the quality of life versus sanctity of life are explained Nonmaleficence is discussed in terms ot the ethical decision-making impact upon the child, the famlly, health care professionals, and society.