Question

Discuss the ethical and legal issues related to a palliative care approach with respect to the following (30-40 words) Request for autopsy and Decisions regarding ACD

Answer 1

Ethical issues are the problems that require the person or organisation to make choice between alternatives right and wrong . It is based on human rights and wrongs .

Legal issues are the issues which require court decision. It is based on written law.

Palliative care is specialised medical care provided to the patient's with serious illness. It is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of illness and to improve the quality of life of both the patient and family.

Ethical issues related to palliative care are :-

- right to refuse treatment

- withholding nutrition support

- do not resuscitate order

- advance directive or durable power of attorney has been appointed.

- nurse must be aware of the ethical policies of the hospital .

- lack of speciality referral

- medical futility

- informed consent

- physician assisted suicide

- responsible resource allocation

- trust /relationship concerns

- prolongation of life :-

1) curative intent

2) acute therapeutic care

3) life sustaining treatments

- promoting family centered care

- respecting preferences

- balancing objectives

Legal.issues of palliative care are :-

- Doctors and nurses working in the palliative care should practise with in the legal controls of jurisdiction.

- should follow the hospice policies.

- pain management is very essential part of palliative care so, it must be provided efficiently in order to avoid criminal and civil implications.

- proper documentations of every procedure and incident .

- failure to comply with ACD may result in criminal or civil liability.

- advanced care directive that complies with the requirements should be legally approved.