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The euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide debate: issues for nursing.
1Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY.
Oncology Nursing Forum
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Oncology nurses must understand euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. As patient advocates, nurses need clarity on these controversial end-of-life care options amid evolving medical technology.
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Nursing
- Oncology
Background:
- The role of nursing in euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide remains undefined.
- Advancements in medical technology heighten patient fears of prolonged suffering and death.
- Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide are viewed by some as a patient right.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the role of oncology nurses concerning euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.
- To prepare oncology nurses for critical discussions on end-of-life care choices.
- To address a significant emerging issue for oncology nursing practice in the next five years.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on nursing ethics and end-of-life care.
- Analysis of current debates surrounding euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.
- Exploration of the patient advocate role in oncology.
Main Results:
- Identified a critical knowledge gap regarding nursing's role in euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.
- Highlighted the increasing relevance of this issue due to technological advancements.
- Confirmed the perception of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide as a patient right by some.
Conclusions:
- Oncology nurses require a comprehensive understanding of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.
- Nurses must be equipped to advocate for patients facing end-of-life decisions.
- Defining nursing's role is crucial for ethical and effective patient care in oncology.