Zeitschrift für Gerontologie und Geriatrie
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115 geriatric in-patients are included in the current study examining relationships between regions of experienced pain, subjective pain intensity, and psychological variables. An investigation of the connection between psychosomatic limitations (BSS) and pain indicated, that pain patients do not necessarily require psychosomatic-psychotherapeutic treatment (in our study only 21.6%). 61.7% of the study sample reported intense pain at least one body region. These patients differed significantly from those with less pain in terms of their level of functional capacity and need for assistance in daily activities (ADL/IADL). ⋯ Hierarchical cluster analyses for applied coping strategies produced five groups within the subgroup of patients suffering from extreme pain. Only within one group "depression" was a significant reaction to health-problems. These results make clear that most of the patients with extreme pain are able to cope effectively with pain.
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In medicine and law the ethical values confront one another: "death with dignity" ("allowing to die") versus the "right to life" ("preservation of life"). An individual's right to self-determination conflicts with the physician's obligation to preserve life. The problematic is discussed from the standpoints of both medicine and law, and current developments in the medical profession and legal practice are presented.
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Euthanasia is as culpable homicide guilty (murder), counselling or aiding suicide however not. The patient has the right to take own decisions concerning the treatment which could unduly prolong the death process.