Before our meeting to discuss end-of-life issues, take a few minutes to review or acquaint yourself with:
1.The case of Karen Ann Quinlan
2. The case of Nancy Cruzan
3. The meaning of futility of care
4. The meaning of physician assisted suicide

What are the legal and ethical issues in the cases of Quinlan and Cruzan? What effect have these cases had on our practices?

What do YOU think about futility of care as a policy? Physician assisted suicide?

How do the ethical principles you learned in the first year apply to 1-4 above?

Finally, think of a case you have had, or heard about, and be prepared to consider this case in light of what we are going to discuss.

A useful reference is DL Kasman. When is medical treatment futile? J Gen Intern Med 2004;19:1053-56. Click Here To Download