Euthanasia is an act or omission
which of itself and by
intention
causes death, with the purpose of eliminating all suffering. It
is
done to someone –
e.g. a
lethal injection by a doctor or nurse.
As stated by the
World Medical Association, euthanasia is incompatible with
the practice of medicine as it involves a deliberate act with the intention to
kill.
Euthanasia must
be distinguished from the decision to forego medical procedures that that no
longer correspond to the needs of the patient (disproportionate, overly
burdensome or futile treatment). This is entirely ethical and a decision between a patient and their doctor.
Euthanasia
does not include the administration of drugs intended for
pain relief that may result in the patient’s life being foreshortened.
It is not euthanasia to provide adequate pain relief – even
sedation if necessary. The intention to relieve pain is noble and
ethically
sound medical practice. The intention to kill a person is entirely
different.
Properly
trained
palliative care physicians know
the clear difference between pain relief and causing death.
The Victorian legislation allows for both euthanasia and assisted suicide.