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Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2004; 129(13): 701-704
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-821374
Ethik in der Medizin
Palliativmedizin / Ethik
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Sterbende sedieren?

Sedation in end-of-life care - ethical aspectsH. C. Müller-Busch1
  • 1Abteilung für Anästhesiologie, Schmerztherapie und Palliativmedizin, GK Havelhöhe, Berlin, Universität Witten/Herdecke
Further Information

Publication History

eingereicht: 5.11.2003

akzeptiert: 12.2.2004

Publication Date:
16 March 2004 (online)

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Zusammenfassung

Sedierung bei Schwerstkranken und Sterbenden spielt eine zunehmende Rolle zur Behandlung therapierefraktärer Symptome aber auch zur Minderung von Anspannung und Angst in der Sterbebegleitung. Im Zusammenhang mit der auch in Deutschland zunehmenden Selbstbestimmungs- und Euthanasiedebatte wird auch das Thema einer „terminalen Sedierung” kontrovers diskutiert. Die Berücksichtigung individueller Bedürfnisse, aber auch die Möglichkeit des Missbrauchs einer „terminalen Sedierung” zur vorzeitigen Lebensbeendigung machen es notwendig, Indikationen, Ziele, Absichten und ethische Implikationen einer medikamentösen Sedierung am Lebensende kritisch zu reflektieren und ihren Stellenwert anhand von Richtlinien zu verdeutlichen.

Summary

Sedation in the final stages of life plays an increasing role to control refractory physical and psychological symptoms and to diminish distress and anxiety in palliative care. In the debate on euthanasia and self determination also in Germany the issue of „terminal sedation” has evoked ethical concerns and is discussed controversially. With respect for personal needs the intentions, aims and indications for medical sedation should be carefully reflected under ethical aspects to clarify its position in end-of-life care

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Prof. Dr. H. Christof Müller-Busch

Abt. f. Anästhesiologie, Palliativmedizin und Schmerztherapie, am Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe

Kladower Damm 221

14089 Berlin

Phone: 030/36501160

Fax: 030/36501161

Email: muebu@havelhoehe.de

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