Life-prolonging procedures are medical interventions or treatments designed to extend a person’s life when their health is severely compromised or when they are facing a life-threatening condition. These procedures may include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and other intensive care measures aimed at sustaining vital functions and preventing imminent death. The decision to undergo life-prolonging procedures often involves complex medical, ethical, and personal considerations, including the patient’s wishes, quality of life, prognosis, and potential risks and benefits of the intervention. Advanced directives, such as living wills and healthcare proxies, allow individuals to specify their preferences regarding life-prolonging treatments in advance, ensuring that their wishes are respected even if they are unable to communicate them later. Overall, the use of life-prolonging procedures is guided by a commitment to preserving life while also respecting patients’ autonomy, dignity, and values.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
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