Ethics: End of Life decision making Flashcards
What is the principle of sanctity of life
Life has an intrinsic value, and that this a value that commands respect
An explanation as to why death saddens us
The absolutist view of the SOL
That the sanctity of life must be adhered to, and in no circumstance is life to shortened in any way. That it is a moral requirement. Chance to extend life wherever possible is done
Abortion, euthanasia, ventilation switched off is all morally wrong.
The prima facie view of the SOL
- Believe SOL is less demanding than the absolutist view
- Respecting the SOL means that actions that may shorten life are taken seriously and that other avenues are explored before a decision to shorten life is taken,
- Allows other values to compete with the SOL
- Basically things can compete with the SOL
Why is the SOL important for medical decision making
Does not solve a issue that arises in terms of end of life decisions, but important to reflect about personal ethical intuitions about end of life, justify position when it conflicts with others and find points of agreement.
Respect for autonomy competing with SOL
-An individual who is autonomous can make a decision for their own life
Tangled relationship, as humans we may hold ourselves as morally higher than a fish lets say, and people because we have this ability to make more decisions for ourselves that we hold a special place. More moral significance
Beneficence and non maleficence versus SOL
In most cases these welfare principles do not conflict with the SOL, generally what is good for a patient is consistent with and requires continued existemce
-However in some cases, may seem to be a kindness to shorten life as quality of life is so low. (Tay Sachs). This is childhood so decisions have to be made by someone who is autonomous.
Justice and SOL
Competition between SOL and requirements of distributive justice.
Cost of preserving a life is very expensive, and is brone by the community, such that the claims of others are affected by saving one person life.
How to weigh SOL against the ethical principles
1) Overall prognosis: Is the person dying?
2) Suffering: is the person suffering unrelievably
3) Respect for autonomy: has the person autonomously chosen to shorten life. Is it fully informed, is it voluntary, can they make the decision or are they impaired in some way
4) Questions about means: What is the request for? -withdrawal of existing care? active assistance to die, DNR? feeding removal
