Question

4. Why is defining “death” so important? Do competent adults have the right to refuse life-

sustaining treatment? What about mature minors or vulnerable adults? See Council on Ethical

and Judicial Affairs, American Medical Association’s “Withholding and Withdrawing Life-Sustaining Treatment

Answer 1

Death refers to end of life ,in simple it is the complete cessation of functioning of all organs in the body where revievial is impossible in any method either naturally or artificially.

Competent adults have the rights to refuse treatment on the grounds of principle of autonomy. It is acceptable under law and not liable.

Mature minors can take decision in regards to treatment if they are aged above 16 years in certain states but it is a legal challenge if a decision is made on life saving treatment where the parents are responsible for doing it .

Vulnerable adults if they are 18 years and above who is mentally sound has the rights to make decision under law but strictly fitting in the ,schedules or law for refusal of treatment,.