There are issues concerning death and dying may influence nursing prac

There are issues concerning death and dying may influence nursing practice which the nurse rec-ognizes. Concerning the legalities of death and dying issues, which of the following is true?

1. Passive euthanasia is illegal in all states.
2. Assisted suicide is a constitutional right.
3. Organ donation must be attempted if it will save the recipient’s life.
4. Feedings may be refused by competent individuals who are unable to self-feed.

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Competent clients have the right to refuse treatment. This includes life-saving hydration and nu-trition. This is not a true statement. Furthermore, physician-assisted suicide is legal in the state of Oregon. In 1997 the Supreme Court ruled that there is no fundamental constitutional right to as-sisted suicide. Organ donation does not have to be attempted to save a recipient’s life.