A relatively new and rapidly expanding technology for the production of viable offspring is in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer. The ethical issues surrounding this technology — the status of the embryo, cryopreservation, and the selection of IVF recipients — are explored. These issues and the resulting dilemmas need to be examined by each individual nurse as the unique needs of IVF couples are a challenge to the nursing profession. Many questions arise regarding the role of the nurse in this new dimension of health c