The debate over prolongation of life versus relief of suffering in elderly patients mainly involves differing opinions regarding what ethical principle?

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The debate over prolongation of life versus relief of suffering in elderly patients mainly involves differing opinions regarding the ethical principle of beneficence, which is the principle of doing good and promoting the welfare of others. Some argue that prolonging life is the best way to serve the patient's well-being, while others argue that relief of suffering is the more important ethical principle to be followed. Autonomy, role fidelity, and justice may also be relevant ethical principles in this debate, but they are not the main principles involved.

The Debate Over Prolongation of Life Versus Relief of Suffering