Session 6: Ethics at at end of life Flashcards
what is death
irreversible loss of capacity for consciousness, combined w irreversible loss of capacity to breathe
is a person in a persistent vegatative state alive
yes because the pt retains brainstem function, able to breathe unassisted, normal sleep wake cycles, have periods of wakeful eye opening
what can invasive/hazardous procedures lead to
prolonged but poor quality of life so may not be in best interests
what to do if treatment is futile
there is no duty to initiate or continue treatment
why is withdrawal of treatment an omission rather than an act
the doctor is returning the pt to the position that they would have been in had they not had treatment. the pt is thought of as dying rather than due to w/drawal of tx
what is the santitity of life argument
it is intrinsically wrong to end human life, independent of other considerations BUT lie could be of instrumental value (valuable because of what it allows for the individual) rather than intrinsic value
what is the vitalism argument
all possible steps should be taken to extend life where possible (permanent coma)
what are some religious views
life is a gift from God, we have a duty to preserve it, not dispose of it
when is it lawful to cease giving medical treatment
when the treatment involves invasive manipulation of the pts body to which he has no consented and which offers him no benefit
what is the doctrine of double effect
it is always wrong to do a bad act even though it may have a good result. based on the difference between intention and forseen acts
what does the suicide act 1961 say
its not illegal to commit suicide but u cannot aid, abet, counsel or procure suicide
what is euthanasia
killing someone because in light of their distressing condition, it is thought to be in their best interest
arguments for euthanasia
dignified death, autonomous choice by the pts
arguments against euthanasia
doctor performing euthanasia may feel guilt, palliative care may provide a more dignified death, sanctitiy of life, slippery slope, lead to mercy killing being viewed as acceptable
