The terminal quality of life and passive or active euthanasia.
The problems presented by the different categories of dying people are briefly discussed from the point of view of terminal quality of life. Euthanasia is used in its broader meaning, including both passive and active aspects. Passive euthanasia (PE) is exercised by withholding advanced or basic life support measures, the commonest form being do not resuscitate orders (DNR). Some data on its application are presented. Active euthanasia (AE), which has been proposed and being applied to a limited extent lately, is criticized as leading the physician and the Society onto risky ground. A position is being taken against it. Decision making, examples of guidelines, legal, philosophical and spiritual considerations are discussed. Wisdom and loving care should be exercised by the physician to assist people in their terminal phases and to alleviate their suffering. That there is not a single answer to the problem is discussed.
Daikos
G K
GK
Athens University School of Medicine, Greece.
D006801:Humans; D016223:Advance Directives; D003657:Decision Making; D005065:Euthanasia; D028601:Euthanasia, Active; D005066:Euthanasia, Passive; D015276:Health Care Rationing / Q000592:standards; D006664:History; D007391:International Cooperation; D038622:Internationality; D007603:Jurisprudence; D008020:Life Support Care / Q000592:standards; D016743:Mental Competency; D018529:Nutritional Support; D016134:Organizational Policy; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D018458:Persistent Vegetative State; D010684:Philosophy; D010820:Physicians; D011640:Public Policy; D011788:Quality of Life; D012067:Religion; D012068:Religion and Medicine; D040841:Resource Allocation; D016414:Resuscitation Orders; D012297:Right to Die; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000592:standards; D019452:Terminally Ill; D013795:Thanatology; D026712:Value of Life; D035862:Vulnerable Populations; D028761:Withholding Treatment