It is notable that the pets, our dogs and cats, are not forced to suffer through a lingering illness when there is no hope for recovery. If we can bestow that kindness on the animals we love, the same compassion should be available to human beings. Physician-assisted suicide has been promoted in a number of ways.
While hospice care may be excellent, it does not completely obliterate all the pain. Many physicians have an unspoken and unacknowledged agreement with the family to increase the pain medication to a level that will induce a peaceful ending to the pain. In this way a pointless period of a few days suffering will be allayed.
In the state of Oregon, Dying with Dignity is a legally acceptable way to a peaceful death. Religious or other beliefs may see some patients who want to stay alive as long as possible. None of them are convinced to change their minds and hasten their death. By the same token, the patient wanting to end his suffering can have a gentle, non-violent ending.
If a peaceful death is not available for some terminal patients, they may end their own lives in traumatic ways. This would only add to the sadness experienced by the loved ones left behind. How horrible for them to leap from tall buildings or resort to shooting themselves. The peaceful ending should be available to all who need to escape their pain.
Just having the medication to end life is comfort enough. It allows the patient to feel in control of his life and his choices to continue it or end it. Often that option is not used, but simply provides the security of knowing it is available.
When a lethal injection is the ending provided, it is not long-lasting. The chronic pain that can no longer be alleviated, is put to an end. Some patients who are still able to do so will swallow medication. Other will have it administered intravenously In a rapid succession, three different drugs are introduced through an IV. Death may be instantaneous.
Those who are being kept alive by means of a breathing tube, a feeding tube or any other artificial means are in no condition to assert their wishes. The legal document known as the living will assigns the right to make life and death decisions for the patient. Usually it will be assigned to a trusted relative.
A senior citizen or anyone else might want this viable document for their peace of mind. In case of an accident to a younger person, they will be sure not to be left alive in a vegetative state. They can legally refuse any lifesaving methods be administered. They can be sure that will not happen.
If it states that only palliative care should be provided, then no other care can be imposed. If they are no longer conscious, their wishes will be honored. The living will is a legal document, signed and witnessed by two other people.
About the Author:
No comments:
Post a Comment