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PubMed · 17167919

Life-sustaining technologies: value issues.

M B Kapp
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Abstract

This article examines life-extending technologies such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, antibiotics, dialysis, and artificial nutrition and hydration. It considers these technologies in terms of the value issues of (1) equity of access, (2) equity of allocation, (3) cost-effectiveness and appropriateness of use, (4) legal concerns, and (5) determination and control of the application of technology. How we resolve these issues tests our character as individuals and as a society--it plays a key role in determining who shall live and what kind of society we shall become.

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Age FactorsBiomedical TechnologyCardiopulmonary ResuscitationCost-Benefit AnalysisDecision MakingHealth Care RationingHealth PrioritiesHealth Services AccessibilityHumansInformed ConsentIntensive Care UnitsLife Support CareMedicaidMedical FutilityMedicareNutritional SupportOutcome Assessment, Health CarePatient AdmissionPatient SelectionPhysician's RolePublic PolicyRenal DialysisResource AllocationSocial JusticeSocial ValuesUnited StatesVentilators, MechanicalWithholding TreatmentDeath and EuthanasiaHealth Care and Public HealthJournal ArticleReview

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M B Kapp. 1993. Life-sustaining technologies: value issues.. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4560.1993.tb00925.x

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