Deciding about continuous deep sedation: physicians’ perspectives

Abstract

Although guidelines restrict the use of continuous deep sedation to patients with refractory physical symptoms and a short life-expectancy, its use is not always restricted to these conditions. A focus group study of physicians was conducted to gain more insight in the arguments for and against the use of continuous deep sedation in several clinical situations. Arguments in favour of continuous deep sedation for patients with a longer life-expectancy were that the overall clinical situation is more relevant than life-expectancy alone, and that patients’ wishes should be followed. Continuous deep sedation for patients with predominantly emotional/existential suffering was considered appropriate when physicians empathize with the suffering. Further, some physicians indicated that they may consider the use of sedation in the context of a euthanasia request. Arguments were that the option of continuous deep sedation is a better alternative; it may comfort some patients when their thoughts about potential future suffering become unbearable. Further, some considered continuous deep sedation as less burdening or a bother to perform. We conclude that physicians’ decision-making about continuous deep sedation is characterized by balancing the interests of patients with their own feelings. Accordingly, the reasons for its use are not unambiguous and need further debate.