Chapter 9 Key facts checklists

Euthanasia is the intentional ending of a person’s life by the act or omission of another person to relieve pain and suffering.
Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one’s own life. Although suicide has been decriminalised, assisting another to commit suicide is an offence.
It may be lawful, in certain circumstances, to administer pain relief, which can incidentally shorten life on the basis of the doctrine of double effect.
Futility is a concept used to justify withdrawal or withholding active treatment if this will not achieve the goal intended.
Incompetent patients are treated on the principle of best interests (governed by the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005).