Patient termination of a life-sustaining medical device: Suicide or natural death?
J Forensic Sci
; 68(6): 2037-2047, 2023 Nov.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-37578281
ABSTRACT
Medical technology has made tremendous strides in extending the lives of patients who have suffered organ failure. Machines can now replace the function of the kidneys, the heart, and other vital organs. Much has been written about a patient's right to refuse or direct the withdrawal of medical treatment, especially at the end of life, under the guise of "death with dignity." However, little attention has been paid to the situation where a patient elects to deactivate their life-sustaining medical device without a physician's involvement. This raises the challenging question of whether the patient's manner of death should be classified as suicide or natural. Surprisingly, common law, statutes, medical ethics, and public health practice are not in alignment on the answer. This article will explore the ramifications and far-reaching impact that such divergence has on the survivors and the medical community, as well as recommend corrective actions and practical approaches for the medical and legal practitioner.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Contexto em Saúde:
6_ODS3_enfermedades_notrasmisibles
Problema de saúde:
6_mental_health_behavioral_disorders
Assunto principal:
Suicídio
Aspecto:
Ethics
Limite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Forensic Sci
Ano de publicação:
2023
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Estados Unidos