Abstract
Futile therapy – a review with a supplementary psychological perspective
Katedra Anestezjologii i Intensywnej Terapii, Uniwersytet Warmińsko-Mazurski, Olsztyn, Polska
Wyższa Szkoła Zdrowia, Urody i Edukacji, Poznań, Polska
Uniwersytet WSB Merito, Chorzów, Polska
Powiślańska Akademia Nauk Stosowanych, Kwidzyn, Polska
This article addresses the problem of futile therapy in the context of caring for patients in the terminal stage of illness, taking into account both medical and psychological aspects of the end of life. It also discusses fundamental concepts such as palliative care, futile/persistent therapy, the terminal state, and euthanasia. A review of the most important publications concerning the management of terminal conditions is presented, and a clear distinction is drawn between futile therapy and euthanasia. Particular attention is given to the experience of illness by patients and their families, highlighting the need to provide psychological support during the dying process.
Keywords
futile therapy, medically futile treatment, patient rights, physician’s duties, euthanasia, terminal condition
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