In:
The Linacre Quarterly, SAGE Publications, Vol. 80, No. 4 ( 2013-11), p. 308-316
Abstract:
Patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), which include pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), may request deactivation of their devices as they approach the end of life. The Heart Rhythm Society (2010) has stated that “ethically, and legally, there are no differences between refusing CIED therapy and requesting withdrawal of CIED therapy.” On the basis of the principle that there is no ethical distinction between withholding and withdrawing treatment, this professional organization has suggested that both the antibradycardia and antitachycardia features of these devices may be disabled at the patient's request. We argue that disabling ICD shocks is analogs to a do-not-resuscitate order and is ethically permissible whereas withdrawing pacing from a pacemaker-dependent patient is an act of intentionally hastening death and not morally licit.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0024-3639
,
2050-8549
DOI:
10.1179/2050854913Y.0000000005
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2013
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2560599-9
SSG:
1
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