Passive taboos
Article Abstract:
Moral and legal dilemmas over euthanasia pose problems for nurses. Nurses may be emotionally upset by allowing a patient to die as it conflicts with their aim to save life. Nurses must also rely on individual judgement as no clear guidelines exist. The patient has a right to accept or refuse treatment and nurses should be supportive. They can act as the patient's advocate ensuring they make well-informed decisions. Nurses may use knowledge of the patients wishes to influence doctors' decisions. However, good communication between all practitioners is essential.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1992
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Deepening dilemma
Article Abstract:
In the U.K., issues involving euthanasia and the active ending of life have become increasingly important, with several court cases involving severely handicapped babies continuing the debate. The British Medical Association has confirmed its position on euthanasia and says that doctors must not end the lives of their patients. In the Netherlands, around 200 severely disabled newborn babies are allowed to die each year and the Dutch Paediatric Association has sanctioned the use of medication to terminate life in severe cases.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1996
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Looking at care
Article Abstract:
The nursing profession needs to agree on standards for the caring of terminally ill patients and must be active in inspiring discussions on the moral issues of self-determination for patients. Such self-determination means that patients can be involved from the beginning in their own treatment by allowing them to know what kind of care is to be provided. The main priority in nursing the terminally ill is to put the patient's welfare first.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1992
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