New directives respect dignity of humans
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Send to friendThe U.S. bishops' new directive on the moral duty to provide food and water to all patients who need it will help draw the line more clearly when termination of basic care is considered. It should help avoid those deliberate acts of euthanasia associated with the interruption of minimal care of the patient. And, in those rare cases when artificial nourishment and hydration may be excessively burdensome for the patient or may cause significant physical discomfort, one can make the judgment to withdraw the means with a morally upright conscience.
The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services provide guidance for the ethical administration of health care in Catholic facilities in the United States. The group of directives covers a wide range of issues but provides a concise and practical reference for health care providers. In the November meetings of the U.S. bishops, an updated set of directives was approved.
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