Christian Worldview Concepts

The Ethics of Terminal Sedation as a Treatment for End-of-Life Pain and Suffering

Closing Thoughts

Many families reflect fondly on the moments immediately preceding the death of a loved one. They tell of being blessed to take part in meaningful conversations and to hear their loved one's parting words.

How might terminal sedation alter such deathbed experiences? Perhaps family members could say "good-bye" prior to sedation, but the conversation would end with the words, "Now we're going to kill you." Is this the sort of loving memory anyone desires?