ETHICAL AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF EUTHANASIA IN TERMINALLY PATIENTS

Abstract

Euthanasia in terminal patients is a complex issue that sparks intense debates worldwide, involving significant ethical and legal considerations. Euthanasia entails the practice of deliberately ending the life of a patient who is experiencing unbearable suffering due to an irreversible medical condition. This study aims to analyze the impact of the legalization of euthanasia on terminal patients concerning individual autonomy, ethical principles, and changes in medical practices, particularly in relation to end-of-life decision-making. We adopted a bibliographic and documentary research methodology, reviewing relevant literature on "Euthanasia in Terminal Patients: Ethical and Legal Aspects" through academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and BVS. The selection of studies focused on those directly discussing the ethical dilemmas and legislative variations regarding euthanasia, prioritizing articles, books, and legal documents published in Portuguese and originating from countries with specific legislation for euthanasia. The analysis of the studies revealed the complexity of integrating euthanasia into current medical and legal practices, highlighting a tension between respecting patient autonomy and the need to protect vulnerable individuals. The results emphasize the importance of ensuring that the decision for euthanasia is truly voluntary and free from external influences, underscoring patient autonomy as a central ethical principle in medicine. Legally, there was observed a diversity in approaches to euthanasia, with some countries adopting specific legislation that allows the practice under strict conditions, while in others, euthanasia remains in a legally ambiguous area or is considered illegal. This variation reflects the need for clear and stringent guidelines that reconcile patients' rights with protection against potential abuses.