Question

Answer of the following questions (one paragraph per question).

Please use reliable references

Avoid cut and paste

• What factors should be considered when deciding whether to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging treatment?

• What steps should health professionals take to support patients in the last days of life?

Answer 1

Some of the treatments will artificially extend the life of the patient. Any treatment must provide comfort and safety to the patient other than harm to the patient. So withholding or withdrawing of treatment depends on whether the treatment will improve the quality of life of the patient or it's futile in the patient view. Prolonged treatment should not overburden the patient illness. The treatment should be relevant to patient care. the patient wishes and family considerations should be taken into account before withhold or withdraw life-prolonging treatment. Unnecessary treatment should not make additional cost. So the effective decision making should be taken by considering laws and all the factors related to patient care.

Health Professionals should take measures to support the patient to die with dignity. End of life should be according to the patient's wishes. Health professionals should provide palliative care for the comfort and peaceful death of the patient. Help the patient to cope up with the end of life. Provide more emotional and social support. An interdisciplinary team approach should be involved in the coordination of care. Make discussions with the family members in supporting of last few days of the patient's life.