The practice of continuous deep sedation until death in Flanders (Belgium), The Netherlands, and the U.K.: a comparative study

Context:Existing empirical evidence shows that continuous deep sedation until death is given in about 15% of all deaths in Flanders, Belgium (BE), 8% in The Netherlands (NL), and 17% in the U.K.Objectives:This study compares characteristics of continuous deep sedation to explain these varying frequencies.Methods:In Flanders, BE (2007) and NL (2005), death certificate studies were conducted. Questionnaires about continuous deep sedation and other decisions were sent to the certifying physicians of each death from a stratified sample (Flanders, BE: n = 6927; NL: n = 6860). In the U.K. in 2007–20... Mehr ...