Why Palliative Care for Children is Preferable to Euthanasia

Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2016 Feb;33(1):5-7. doi: 10.1177/1049909114542648. Epub 2014 Jul 9.

Abstract

Recent laws in Europe now allow for pediatric euthanasia. The author reviews some rationale for caution, and addresses why ensuring the availability of pediatric palliative care is an important step before allowing pediatric euthanasia.

Keywords: end of life; ethics; euthanasia; palliative care; pediatrics.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Beneficence
  • Child
  • Child Welfare / ethnology*
  • Europe
  • Euthanasia / ethics*
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care / ethics*
  • Pediatrics / standards
  • Terminal Care / ethics