Citation

Simon A. Tagliche Praxis 2017; 59(3): 485-493.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

In clinical practice, decisions about beginning, continuing or terminating life-sustaining measures frequently give rise to ethical questions and conflicts. They are quite often caused by a lack of knowledge of the legal framework. This article delineates the German, Austrian and Swiss legal situations with regard to the various forms of euthanasia (killing on demand, assisted suicide, symptom control, termination of treatment). Subsequently, ethical and legal criteria for decision making (indication and patient wish) as well as the peculiarities of medical decisions in emergency situations are discussed. Finally, ethical case deliberation is presented as a means of support in difficult or controversial decision making processes.

Language: de

Keywords

Advance care planning; Decision making; Ethics consultation; Euthanasia; Terminal care