A review of physician-assisted suicide: where do you stand?

This article is intended to promote thought and discussion among nurses on the issue of physician-assisted suicide. A case study is presented to highlight some of the issues involved. A review of the literature presents medical and nursing views. The Netherlands' experience is summarized, with attention to the historical development and acceptance of assisted suicide and euthanasia in Dutch society. A review of current U.S. legal challenges follows, including decisions in Washington and New York in March and April 1996. The reader is asked to consider the ramifications of physician-assisted suicide and whether it should be an end-of-life choice.