Legalization of Free-Will Euthanasia as Means of Pain Relieving the Work of Nursing
Euthanasia, also known as assisted suicide, is one of the most controversial subjects globally. It is the provision of medical aid in dying by a physician. So far, only a few nations have legalized it, including; Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and some states in the United States. Several arguments argue for and against the legalization of euthanasia.
Those in support of euthanasia, base their arguments on the fact that it is a way of ensuring the patient’s autonomy is respected. It also gives the patient the right to make choices; the physician should administer euthanasia when the patient gives the go-ahead. Euthanasia also ensures there are a variety of medical options. It is an efficient way of relieving pain.
Others, who argue against euthanasia, perceive it as an option that goes against the professional core values of upholding life. Some religions view life as sacred and God-given. According to them, life is divine; only God gives, and only he can take. There are also fears that the legalization of euthanasia can cause people to misuse it, leading to the perception that life is not valuable.
Although nurses are not allowed to carry out euthanasia, they play critical roles in the entire process. They get involved before and after the execution of euthanasia. Nurses talk to the patient to figure out the underlying cause of a patient choosing euthanasia. They also carry out assessments and diagnosis to develop a prognosis of the medical condition and whether it is treatable.
After that, they talk to the patient’s family and find out their feelings and thoughts. Excellent listening skills are required. The nurse then explains to the patient and the family what euthanasia means and the process. During this time, the nurse should continue to provide care and support to the patient.
A patient should be given time after signing the written consent to decide whether they will change their mind. Nurses, under the guidance of the physician, should proceed to prepare the medication to be used. That includes; sedatives, analgesic agents, and euthanatics. After the execution of the euthanasia, the nurse has to inform the family.
The family might exhibit emotions such as grief and regret; the nurse should console them and provide emotional support. They should later dispose of all the wastes. Nurses need to have excellent communication and counseling skills, as they are intensely involved in pre and post euthanasia.
References
Godfrey, Belinda Arjona. “Hospice nurses’ attitudes on active voluntary euthanasia.” (1995).
Smith, Cheryl K. “What about legalized assisted suicide.” Issues L. & Med. 8 (1992): 503.
