[Discontinuation of futile therapy]

It is now documented that intensive care units do consider whether treatments promote "the good" and serve patients best. Uncritical use of technology to prolong the dying process must be avoided, and palliative principles worked out. Decisions to withhold or withdraw treatment are among the toughest for both patients and physicians. Legislation covering the area is sufficient, both with regard to competent as well as incompetent patients. However, there are major differences as to how the law is acted upon. Guidelines for futile intensive care treatment should therefore be worked out, and uncritical referral of patients to the ICU avoided.