Medical end-of-life decisions

In the Mortality Survey, the following medical decisions concerning end of life are distinguished, classified from least to most radical:

Withhold and/or withdraw treatment (NIS). The doctor takes into account that this can have a life-shortening effect.

• intensified pain and/or symptom treatment (PSB). The doctor takes into account that this can have a life-shortening effect.
• intensified pain and/or symptom treatment (PSB). The doctor’s intention is also hasten the patient’s death.
• withhold and/or withdraw treatment (NIS). The doctor has the explicit intention to hasten the patient’s death.
• prescribe, supply or administer a drug with the explicit intention to hasten the patient’s death ('Administer a drug').
  

This group can be subdivided into euthanasia, assistance with suicide and life-ending actions without the patient’s explicit request.

If the doctor indicates that a combination of several decisions has been taken, the patient’s death is classified under the most radical decision.