What term is used to describe a situation in which medication is used to relieve the pain of dying patients, even to the point that it causes death?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Terminal sedation, also known as palliative sedation, is the practice of administering medication to a dying patient to manage their pain and relieve their suffering, even if it may hasten their death. This is considered a form of palliative care and is legal in many countries, including the United States, as long as it is done with the intention of managing symptoms rather than causing death. Active euthanasia is the intentional act of ending a patient's life, while passive euthanasia is withholding or withdrawing medical treatment that would prolong a patient's life. Medication error refers to mistakes made in administering medication, which may or may not result in harm to the patient.

What Term Is Used to Describe a Situation in Which