[Practice of euthanasia among physicians and nurses in German hospitals]

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Palliative Care
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Euthanasia, including active, passive, and indirect forms, is a debated topic in Germany.
• There is a lack of empirical data on the incidence of various euthanasia practices in German hospitals.
• Physicians and nurses are key stakeholders in end-of-life care decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the incidence of different types of euthanasia (active, passive, indirect) and physician-assisted suicide in German hospitals.
• To identify potential influencing factors on the practice of euthanasia among healthcare professionals.
• To provide empirical data for the ongoing discussion on euthanasia in Germany.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was conducted among physicians and nurses in German hospitals.
• The survey utilized descriptive terms and definitions to gather information on euthanasia practices.
• Data on participants' occupational situations and euthanasia advocacy were collected from 2507 physicians and 2683 nurses.

Main Results:

• Passive and indirect euthanasia were reported by a significant number of participants within the last 24 months.
• Active euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide were practiced by substantially fewer healthcare professionals.
• Occupational factors and euthanasia advocacy, but not subjective burden, explained variations in active euthanasia practices.

Conclusions:

• Euthanasia, in its various forms, is a reality within German hospitals, practiced by both physicians and nurses.
• The study highlights a differential incidence among euthanasia types, with passive/indirect forms being more prevalent.
• Understanding the influence of occupational factors is crucial for addressing euthanasia practices and related ethical considerations.