[Respect for autonomy of "incompetent" patients?--the ethical problem of advanced directives]

In addressing the ethical and legal problems of advanced directives, the article discusses whether respect for the autonomy of the so-called "incompetent" patients is possible and morally required. Starting with a critique of how modern medicine threatens patient autonomy and care (2.), the author goes on to highlight the mutual interdependence between respect for autonomy and patient care as two moral requirements arising from respect for human dignity (3.). Finally; the article elucidates the practical consequences as they relate to a treatment approach for each patient that is simultaneously caring and respectful of their autonomy, commenting on the ramifications for a sensitive and conscientious approach to advanced medical directives and for the special -role of nursing in this context.