| Is it ever acceptable to forgo life-sustaining treatment? |
American Baptist Churches |
| Yes. "In too many cases extraordinary measures have been taken to sustain a life with no apparent regard for the quality of life nor for the wishes and desires of the dying person, and/or their family" ("Resolution on Death and Dying" 1990: par. 2). "There needs to be a balance restored between the caring and curing goals of medicine, where the concern for minimizing suffering and preserving dignity that caring entails is given equal status to curing especially in those situations where curing is not possible" (par. 5). . . . "we therefore call upon American Baptist churches and related organizations . . . to lobby for legislation that enhances and facilitates the individual’s right to make his/her own decisions regarding life sustaining treatment or measures" (paragraphs 7-8). |
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 Is it ever acceptable to forgo artificial nutrition and hydration? |
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| Not specifically addressed. |
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| "Resolution on Death and Dying" (General Board Reference #8182:6/90). 1990 (modified 3/92 and 3/96). American Baptist Churches in the USA. |
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