The practice of intensive care medicine raises multiple legal and ethical issues on a daily basis, making it increasingly difficult to know whom to admit and when, at what stage invasive ...
MoreThe practice of intensive care medicine raises multiple legal and ethical issues on a daily basis, making it increasingly difficult to know whom to admit and when, at what stage invasive management should be withdrawn, and who, importantly, should decide? These profound dilemmas, already complicated in a setting of scarce resources, mandate an understanding of law and ethics for those working in intensive care medicine. Clinically focused, the book explains the relevance of landmark rulings to aid the day-to-day decision making of critical care professionals. A spectrum of ethical and legal controversies in critical care are addressed to demonstrate how law and ethics affect the care available to patients, and how patients’ responses to advances in treatment in turn influence legal and ethical concerns. Discussion of conflict resolution advises on the options that are open to doctors when agreement on treatment decisions or withdrawal cannot be reached. The literature and variations surrounding ‘Do not attempt resuscitation’ (DNAR) decisions are outlined. This edition also provides an up-to-date analysis of issues such as futility and deprivation of liberty.
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