The term euthanasia comes from the greek words “eu” and “thanatos” which combined means “well-death” or “dying well”.

A now-unused machine that facilitated euthanasia through heavy doses of drugs. The laptop screen led the user through a series of steps and questions to ensure he or she was fully prepared. The machine is pictured on display in a museum.

Euthanasia may be conducted passively, non-aggressively, and aggressively. Passive euthanasia entails the withholding of common treatments (such as antibiotics, pain medications, or surgery) or the distribution of a medication (such as morphine) to relieve suffering, knowing that it may also result in death . Passive euthanasia is the most accepted form, and it is a common practice in most hospitals. Non-aggressive euthanasia entails the withdrawing of life support and is more controversial. Aggressive euthanasia entails the use of lethal substances or forces to kill and is the most controversial .

Doctor-assisted euthanasia was declared legal in Switzerland as long as the person ending the life has nothing to gain.

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 17th, 2008 at 8:32 am and is filed under Technology, Gadgets, Health, Health tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.