Ethics and pain management: An introductory overview

Professionals cure and comfort, and they do so in a trustworthy fashion. Pain specialists encounter some special issues as they seek to fulfill their professional mandate. Some key ethical issues that arise are described including situations involving end-of-life care needs, physician-assisted suicide requests, terminal sedation, doctrine of double effect, and chronic conditions. Policy issues are also described, including those related to controlled substances and access to pain treatment. This overview is an introductory presentation; it is supplemented by two cases, each with an analysis applying some of the ethical considerations described.