New edition to shape ethical and legal framework for decision-making on treatment, end-of-life care

This major new work updates and significantly expands The Hastings Center's 1987 Guidelines on the Termination of Life-Sustaining Treatment and Care of the Dying. Like its predecessor, this second edition will shape the ethical and legal framework for decision-making on treatment and end-of-life care in the United States. This groundbreaking work incorporates 25 years of research and innovation in clinical care, law, and policy. Structured for ease of reference, this book clarifies the current ethical and legal framework for treatment decision-making and end-of-life care in the U.S. It includes a selected bibliography of more than 500 print and online resources.

In health care work, describing and reflecting on current conditions can shed light on persistent ethical challenges. Palliative care workers who focus on the relief of suffering and other goals central to the care of the sick observe and experience many such challenges daily.