Nursing Perspectives on Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia

Abstract

SUMMARYAs primary caregivers across settings, nurses are challenged to provide compassionate care to terminally ill patients and their families. The issue of assisted suicide and euthanasia creates unique challenges for the nursing profession. Previous literature related to nurses' attitudes regarding euthanasia and assisted suicide is reviewed in this discussion of the issues central to nursing. These issues include ethical dimensions of nursing care, nursing attitudes regarding suicide, and nurses' unique roles with patients and family caregivers. The unique role of the nurse and professional obligations of the nursing profession are pivotal in addressing this important social issue.