Dysthanasia as a neglected issue of euthanasia discussions. The relations between terminology, discussions about naturaldeath, medical futility and substituted judgement
2013
Abstract
The relations between terminology, discussions about natural death, medical futility and substituted judgement. In this article we attempt a complex reflection on the concepts of euthanasia and dysthanasia in relation to decision making done in the framework of the natural death concept.
We also try to show the criteria of ordinary and extraordinary means can help us to make more detailed decision about particular therapeutic measures. Subsequently we discuss the term "dysthanasia" in relation to medical futility and in connection with the principles/concepts of substituted judgment, the "pure autonomy" standard and the "best interests" principle.