Correlation of the Knowledge and Stance of the Relatives and Friends of ICU Patients Towards Euthanasia

Abstract

Background: Euthanasia is a subject of challenge and has now gained medical, legal political, social and even economical status. In many countries, the legal framework is in favor of euthanasia under certain conditions. In Greece, it has not been instituted any specific framework about euthanasia. Reflection and debate on euthanasia stems essentially from the apparent conflict with the right to life, which is internationally protected and guaranteed constitutionally, almost in all countries. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the knowledge and attitude of relatives/friends of patients hospitalized in an Intensive Care Unit towards euthanasia. Materials-Method: We used a self-completed questionnaire created by Priamis et al, which was given to the family and/or friends of critically ill patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). The protocol of the study was approved by the Scientific and Ethics committee of the hospital. Data collection lasted 3 years, specifically from 1-3-2012 to 28-2-2015, covering all the age groups of people eligible to participate and both sexes. Results: 50.7% of the sample were female and 33.6% was the patient's parents. The severity of disease in patients admitted to the intensive care unit. measured with the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) Score II was ≥20. 62.9% of respondents considered the quality of life of the patient more important compared to the value of life. 48.3% of the study sample were in favor of euthanasia and 66.4% knew little/too little about euthanasia. 48.3% of the sampled individuals agreed to institutionalize euthanasia under certain conditions. We found statistically significant correlations (p<0.001) in the intent to discontinue the therapy consensus with the patient's age and his state of health. Conclusions: The issue of euthanasia is a challenge for society. The institutionalization of the discontinuation of the treatment under certain conditions, including the right of patient self-management is an important issue in matter of legal, social, moral and religious standards. Informing people about euthanasia is an imperative need in order to change attitudes related to discontinuation of treatment.