Percepciones y sentimientos sobre eutanasia en estudiantes de enfermería de la Universidad de Cuenca, 2024

Abstract

Euthanasia poses an ethical and legal dilemma debated in society. Although some countries have legalized it under strict protocols, most, including Ecuador, have not. The increase in terminal illnesses and lack of access to palliative care drive the discussion. Nurses, especially close to terminally ill patients, may face requests for assistance in dying. Although there is no previous research in Ecuador on its perspectives, a qualitative study with 10 Nursing students reveals the complexity of the topic. Opposing views stand out about the right to manage the end of suffering and the obligation to preserve life at all costs. There are also mixed feelings between empathy for suffering and doubts about preparation to make irreversible decisions. These findings, although limited, offer an initial insight into the perspectives of future nursing professionals in Ecuador on euthanasia. They are important to enrich academic training and contribute to the legal and health debate in the region, which will probably intensify in the future