Keywords

double effect, ethics, euthanasia, palliative sedation

 

Authors

  1. Nelson Bander, Peg MSN, NP, ACHPN, FPCN

Abstract

Palliative sedation at the end of life is a necessary option for patients who have intractable symptoms and are suffering when other palliative interventions have been ineffective. Although recognized in palliative care as an ethically sound and legally sanctioned practice, some nurses continue to express concern that death is being hastened. The intent of this article is to provide clarity to the practice of palliative sedation at end of life.