Massachusetts Medical Society: Question 2

Question 2

 

Question:

 

Important paradigm cases (such as Karen Ann Quinlan, Baby Doe, Nancy Cruzan) cumulatively provide the following ethical guidance:

 

 

 

Answers

Answer:

Competent patients have the right to refuse treatment as long as refusal will not lead to death. 
 

 

Correct Answer? 

 

Explanation:

 

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Answer:

Competent patients may refuse life-sustaining treatment, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and artificial ventilation, but not more basic treatments such as artificial nutrition and hydration. 
 

 

Correct Answer? 

 

Explanation:

 

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Answer:

There is an ethical distinction between withholding and withdrawing treatment; therefore, life-sustaining treatment may not be stopped once it's been started.
 

 

Correct Answer? 

 

Explanation:

 

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Answer:

Physicians may administer medication with the intent of alleviating pain and suffering despite the foreseeable (but unintended) consequence of hastening death.
 

 

Correct Answer? 

 

Explanation:

 

 

Format:

Radio buttons (single select)

 

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