Right to Refuse Tx & Right to Die Flashcards
Vacco v Quill
Washington v Glucksberg
Application of Georgetown
Established the right of competent adults to refuse life-sustaining treatment.
Jehovah’s witness unable to consent to blood transfusion. Husband said they would refuse on religious grounds but not object if the court ordered it. Judge Right allowed treatment.
Cruzan
It is not unconstitutional for state to require clear and convincing evidence of an incompetent person’s wish to refuse life-sustaining tx. State has legitimate interests (eg preserving life, maintaining integrity of medical profession, protecting vulnerable persons)
Nancy Cruzan in vegetative state due to MVA. Family wants to withdraw feeding tube. Roommate said Nancy once said she wouldn’t want a feeding tube. Court required clear and convincing evidence of her desires.
