Title of article :
The sequence of withdrawing life-sustaining treatment from patients
Author/Authors :
David A. Asch، نويسنده , , Kathy Faber-Langendoen، نويسنده , , Judy A. Shea، نويسنده , , Nicholas A. Christakis، نويسنده ,
Issue Information :
روزنامه با شماره پیاپی سال 1999
Pages :
4
From page :
153
To page :
156
Abstract :
Purpose: To describe the observed sequence of withdrawal of eight different forms of life-sustaining treatment and to determine whether aspects of those treatments determine the order of withdrawal. Subjects and methods: We observed 211 consecutive patients dying in four midwestern US hospitals from whom at least one of eight specific life-sustaining treatments was or could have been withdrawn. We used a parametric statistical technique to explain the order of withdrawal based on selected characteristics of the forms of life support, including cost, scarcity, and discomfort. Results: The eight forms of life support were withdrawn in a distinct sequence. From earliest to latest, the order was blood products, hemodialysis, vasopressors, mechanical ventilation, total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and tube feedings (P<0.0001). The sequence was almost identical to that observed in a previous study based on hypothetical scenarios. Forms of life support that were perceived as more artificial, scarce, or expensive were withdrawn earlier. Conclusion: The preference for withdrawing some forms of life-sustaining treatments more than others is associated with intrinsic characteristics of these treatments. Once the decision has been made to forgo life-sustaining treatment, the process remains complex and appears to target many different goals simultaneously.
Journal title :
The American Journal of Medicine
Serial Year :
1999
Journal title :
The American Journal of Medicine
Record number :
807525
Link To Document :
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