Euthanasia and Nurses Role in It

Abstract

The discussion of euthanasia has been aroused in Hong Kong after a teacher’s accident which caused him quadriplegia for 25 years. The teacher requested euthanasia, which was unlawful in Hong Kong. After 14 years, the development of euthanasia remains static. Without strong demand and voices in society to change the position of the existing law on euthanasia, public consultation on a proposal of allowing euthanasia has been delayed and not yet accomplished. In this article, it will discuss the situation and progress of euthanasia in Hong Kong. Ethical principles namely autonomy and beneficence and ethical theory (utilitarianism), Code of Ethics and Religion plays a contributing impact on euthanasia. The role of nurses in euthanasia is also important as nurses spent most of the time with the patient. At present, there is no clear guidance for nurses on euthanasia. Their role can be categorized into three phases namely, pre-euthanasia, intra-euthanasia and post-euthanasia stage. The discussion in this paper provide a more concrete and clear description of nurses’ role and responsibilities of nurses not only limited to Hong Kong, it can also be used in other countries.