Direct request by the patient for euthanasia is the usual case. It is a request expressed by a conscious and legally capable adult who are in a medical condition where the provisions of the law for implementing euthanasia are fulfilled.
The law requires the following substantive conditions in relation to the condition of the patient:
- The patient must be an adult who is legally capable and conscious at the time of the request;
- The request must be expressed voluntarily, thoughtfully, if applicable repeatedly and must not result from external pressure;
- The patient’s medical condition is serious, incurable, without prospect, and entails constant and unbearable physical or mental suffering without prospect for improvement.
The direct request of the patient is recorded in writing. The document is written, dated and signed by the patient himself or herself. If the patient is in a permanent state of physical incapacity to write and sign his or her request, it may be transcribed and signed by an adult that the patient choses in the presence of the doctor, whose name will also be on the document. A record must be made of the reasons why the patient is not in a condition to write it personally.
A direct request expressed by the patient who is a legally capable and conscious adult remains valid throughout the time required for the implementation of euthanasia, even if the patient becomes unconscious during that period of time.
Notice: Any adult who is legally capable and conscious may also state in the arrangements for the end of life (Will for end of life), the circumstances and conditions in which he or she wishes to undergo euthanasia. These provisions for the end of life are for patients who cannot express their will and are unconscious.
See also:
- What is the role of the person of trust?
- Can one express their wishes in relation to euthanasia beforehand?
- How to write and register your arrangements for the end of life?
- In which cases must the doctor take into consideration the arrangements for the end of life?
- How is the doctor informed about the existence of arrangements for the end of life?
- How long are the arrangements for the end of life valid?
- What is the procedure that the doctor must follow prior to implementing euthanasia or assistance to suicide at the request of a conscious patient?