Friday, October 21, 2011

Professional Perception of Euthanasia

In the first article, it discusses ethical behaviors in relation to assisted suicide. The issue of ethics will always be an integral part of the healthcare field. They go hand in hand and are something that is seen on a daily basis. Undoubtedly, everyone likes to have some type of control because it gives them a sense of security. Assisted suicide is a trend that is now encompassing trust as its underlying issue. Furthermore, in the United States, more than half of Americans are in favor of assisted suicide. There are many different professions that can look at Euthanasia differently. Some doctor see assisted suicide as part of their Hippocratic responsibility. They must make the patient comfortable while going through this difficult time. It is fine line to walk though because a doctor is suppose to dismiss anything to do with killing a patient. Consequently, the contradictions are evident. However, some psychologists see euthanasia as a right just like any of the other amendments. In conclusion, it is an emotional topic which comes with its opinions. People will always have their own judgments and attitudes toward euthanasia.
            In the second article, it discusses the idea of hospice as well as its history. Many know hospice to be a primary facilitator of end-of-life care. In addition, hospice’s purpose is to give patients a pleasant end to life, but with no attempt to delay life in any way. They want to make the patients feel at ease while giving them control. However, their philosophy does harp on the idea of not making any quick decisions. This is where the controversy lies. Some may say that a patient needs more time to make the decision, but how much is enough time? And will time ever really be enough to some? In conclusion, when talking about terminal care nothing will seem black and white, there will always be gray area.  


Resources
Dickinson, G. (2005). Special issue: Ethical concerns involving end-of-life issues in the united states introduction: Ethics and end-of-life issues. Taylor and Francis, 10(1), 1-5. Retrieved from http://blackboard.uc.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_18_1

Mesler, M. A., & Miller, P. J. (2000). Hospice and assisted suicide: The structure and process of an inherent dilemma. 24(2), 135-155. Retrieved from http://blackboard.uc.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_18_1

1 comment:

  1. Hi Ashley--Very nicely done on both of these write-ups. Be sure to make it clear when working with popular sources about which information comes from which sources. In your writing about the professional sources, be wary of generalizations. When you say, "Undoubtedly, everyone likes to have some type of control because it gives them a sense of security," you risk misrepresenting the sources by implying that they've accepted this statement as well.

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