Carey, Benedict.

When a 'Good Death' Isn't for Everyone. / Benedict Carey. - Los Angeles Times Syndicate, 2001. - SIRS Enduring Issues 2002. Article 76. Family, 1522-3213; .

Articles Contained in SIRS Enduring Issues 2002. Originally Published: When a 'Good Death' Isn't for Everyone, Aug. 20, 2001; pp. S1+.

"The 'good death,' as it's sometimes called, is based on informed decision-making: Tell patients promptly when they've got a fatal illness, and they will have a chance to make a dignified exit, one without pain, for instance, surrounded by family....The majority of elderly Americans say they want direct care at their end, and to avoid the cold embrace of ventilators and feeding tubes. The majority--but not everyone. Doctors across the country are now realizing that a growing number of Americans, particularly recent and first-generation immigrants, resent the assumptions that they want to stage-manage their own end or forego lifesaving technology. Pushing a 'good death' on them usually backfires, creating more trauma for patient and family." (LOS ANGELES TIMES) The author comments that not everyone chooses to partake in a "good death" and maintains that for some, confronting end-of-life treatment decisions can cause additional stress and turmoil.

1522-3213;


Advance directives (Medical care)
Culture conflict.
Death--Psychological aspects.
Hospice care.
Pain--Treatment.
Palliative treatment.
Quality of life.
Terminal care.

AC1.S5

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