EUTHANASIA
DR ABDUL HASEEB BHUTTA(PT)
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
EUTHANASIA
• Euthanasia, often referred to as "mercy killing" or "assisted dying," involves intentionally ending a
person's life to relieve suffering. There are various forms of euthanasia, including voluntary, non-
voluntary, and involuntary, each with its own ethical complexities.
• In the realm of professional practice, particularly in healthcare, euthanasia challenges the fundamental
principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. It directly confronts the duty of
healthcare practitioners to alleviate suffering while upholding the sanctity of life.
• In some countries or states, euthanasia might be legalized under certain conditions. For instance, a
patient with a terminal illness experiencing unbearable suffering may request euthanasia. This raises
questions about respecting a patient's autonomy and right to self-determination.
• However, navigating the ethical landscape of euthanasia is far from straightforward. Professional
practice demands a comprehensive understanding of its implications:
• Ethical Dilemmas:
• Legal Perspectives
• Psychosocial Considerations:
• Impact on Professional Ethics
ETHICAL DILEMMAS
• Healthcare professionals face ethical conflicts when balancing a patient's autonomy and the obligation
to preserve life. Determining when euthanasia is justified and respecting patients' wishes while
upholding ethical obligations is challenging.
LEGAL PERSPECTIVES
• : Laws regarding euthanasia vary globally. Some countries have legalized specific forms of assisted dying,
while others strictly prohibit it. Understanding the legal framework is essential to navigate potential
legal consequences.
PSYCHOSOCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
• : Euthanasia isn't merely a medical decision; it involves psychological, social, and emotional factors.
Assessing a patient's mental capacity, the influence of family dynamics, and the impact on healthcare
providers' well-being are crucial.
IMPACT ON PROFESSIONAL ETHICS:
• Euthanasia challenges the moral compass of professionals. It raises questions about the limits of
medical intervention, the role of healthcare providers in end-of-life care, and the potential
desensitization to death.
• In professional practice, it's vital to engage in ongoing dialogue, continuous education, and ethical
reflection regarding euthanasia. Such discussions foster a deeper understanding of the complexities
involved, ensuring that decisions made align with professional codes of ethics and legal boundaries.
• Ultimately, the discussion on euthanasia urges us to contemplate the delicate balance between
compassion for suffering and the preservation of life. As professionals, our duty lies not only in
providing care but also in navigating these ethical challenges with sensitivity, empathy, and an
unwavering commitment to the well-being and dignity of those we serve.
