Is there a place for euthanasia in palliative care?

In the current debate about the legalization of euthanasia the' distinction between giving care and bringing about death is blurred. Alongside this there is an apparent increased commitment to the further development of palliative care. Difficulties arise in palliative care when euthanasia is discussed as there is an inference that a request for euthanasia results from a failure on the part of the carers. Palliative care aims to relieve distress and suffering, but problems arise from unrealistic expectations of what can actually be achieved. There is a need for professionals to emphasize what is possible in relation to palliative care, to acknowledge that there are limitations, and to set realistic and carefully identified goals which are more likely to be achieved than impossible expectations which could induce individuals to consider euthanasia when impossible expectations are not reached. Euthanasia has an impact on the relationships between health-care professionals and their patients which give rise to a potential alteration of the traditional role.