Reflect on the analysis of the sin of suicide and, thus, euthanasia from the topic readings. The Sin of Suicide and Euthanasia The Sin of Suicide and Euthanasia Do you agree? Why or why not? Refer to the lecture and topic readings in your response

The Sin of Suicide and Euthanasia

Euthanasia refers to the act of merciful killing through either the administration of a lethal agent or withholding a lifesaving intervention. It is understandable that death may be the better option in extreme duress, such as in patients with a terminal illness with endless pain and suffering. However, I concur with the idea that physicians should not be permitted to engage in euthanasia. During the training of the healthcare personnel, the main goal is always to save lives in any way possible. Besides, suicide has long been a serious legal issue in most countries (Wells et al., 2013). There are certain countries where individuals who attempt suicide are prosecuted. Therefore, healthcare providers should aim to save patients’ lives as much as possible. This is evidenced by the advancement of the healthcare setting with the increasing number of intensive care facilities. It is believed that as long as an individual can still be supported to live, they have a right to stay alive.

Conversely, in certain situations, the patients request euthanasia to help relieve them from endless pain and suffering. According to Grand Canyon University (2020), palliative care can manage pain. However, suffering is subjective and results from psychosocial issues such as depression, feelings of hopelessness, and anxiety usually accompanying the illnesses. For this reason, healthcare workers are required to care for patients holistically. Besides, according to the WHO definition of health, spiritual and psychological well-being are included. Patients with terminal illnesses should be counseled regularly to give them hope of appreciating life rather than a request for euthanasia. Even though respect for autonomy is among the ethical principles of medical practice, it might not apply to euthanasia. Euthanasia is associated with ethical issues and is still under legal discussion in several countries (Wells et al., 2013). Besides, professional bodies for medical personnel and nurses have long been opposing physician-assisted suicide.

References

Grand Canyon University (Ed.). (2020). Practicing dignity: An Introduction to Christian values and decision-making in health care. https://lc.gcumedia.com/phi413v/practicing-dignity-an-introduction-to-christian-values-and-decision-making-in-health-care/v1.1/#/chapter/4

Wells, Frey, and Cataldo. (2013). Euthanasia. Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health