Abstract

Pharmacist Ed Patch has a problem. He has just received a prescription for an unusually strong dose of a sedative for Mr. Durkheim, one of his long-time patients who has recently been confined to bed for a terminal illness. In checking the prescription order with Dr. Menninger, he is surprised to learn that the dosage schedule is correct, and that Mr. Durkheim and his family have agreed to discontinue further treatment, including nutrition and hydration, totally sedate Mr. Durkheim, and allow him to pass away quietly in his sleep. Ed has always held the health and well-being of his patients as his highest concern, and he is disturbed that one of his patients has entered into such an agreement to end his own life. Ed’s discussion with Dr. Menninger has confirmed that Mr. Durkheim faces a long and painful ordeal that could last for several weeks. Ed is reluctant to fill the prescription but realizes that Mr. Durkheim would continue to experience a long and painful period of decline before his death. What should Ed do? Are there any provisions in the 1994 Code of Ethics for Pharmacists that Ed can look to for guidance?