The first time I heard about the term “death with dignity”, I perceived it in a negative way. I wondered how a patient could decide that this was the right thing to do. It was obvious that the prognosis for these individuals was very poor, and I could imagine how it may be easy to lose hope after countless efforts at recovery have failed. However, I couldn’t help my mind from speculating about the potential happy moments these patients may be missing out on if they decide to pursue death with dignity. What perplexed me about this topic even more is the healthcare professionals that can find it in themselves to condone assisted suicide, even if it is what the patient has chosen. The first ethical principle for healthcare professionals is to do no harm to their patients. I thought, what could be more harmful than death? It wasn’t until I read a few articles and heard the stories of people who chose death with dignity until these questions were answered and I finally understood why so many states choosing to make this an option in healthcare. 

My perception of death with dignity has changed immensely. I now know that nonmaleficence is not simply preventing death, but it can also be preventing life that is not worth living. I now understand that keeping a patient alive is not always the best case scenario. In certain instances, it is just prolonging unnecessary suffering for patients, families, and healthcare workers. I have realized that death with dignity enables patients to escape their pain, and have the final moments they choose, surrounded by family at a time and place where they are happiest. Overall, part of me still struggles with the idea morally, but I now have a better grasp of why and how this may be best for some people.