Abstract

PERUZZO-JUNIOR, Léo. Autonomy, care and respect: the debate on assisted extension of life. Rev. Bioética y Derecho [online]. 2017, n.39, pp.121-134.  Epub Nov 02, 2020. ISSN 1886-5887.

Technological advances associated to medical techniques have been leading health professionals to have life extension as their tireless goal. However, the success of such procedures in patients with no chance of recovery and presenting decision-making autonomy has been only extending the process of dying. In this sense, on the one hand giving up the treatment is viewed as a form of suicide, and on the other hand the interruption of the treatment by the medical staff is viewed as active euthanasia. Therefore, quality of life is associated to healing rather than caring. The present article aims to demonstrate that the assisted extension of life reconciles the dimensions of autonomy, care and respect, and that these are responsible for maintaining the concept of dignity.

Keywords : care; respect; autonomy; anticipated guidelines; assisted extension of life.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in Portuguese     · Portuguese ( pdf )