The attitudes towards euthanasia among Hong Kong nursing students

Abstract

Background: End-of-life topic has always been a taboo in traditional Chinese culture. Euthanasia is one of the most morally controversial concerns in end-of-life care. As future primary healthcare professionals providing holistic care for dying persons and their families, nursing students may encounter euthanasia situations. Thus, examining their attitudes towards euthanasia is of paramount significance.

Objectives: To examine the Hong Kong nursing students' attitudes towards euthanasia.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey study. A well-validated Euthanasia Attitude Scale, which comprises ethical considerations, practical considerations, treasuring life, and naturalistic belief, was used to collect data.

Results: A total of 385 out of 450 nursing students (response rate of 87.7%) participated in the study in 2018. Among them, 270 were female. Result demonstrates 53.3%, 32.5%, and 14.2% of students reported a positive, neutral and negative attitude towards passive euthanasia. And 52.5%, 34.8%, and 12.7% reported a positive, neutral, and negative attitude towards active euthanasia. Multiple regression supports that passive euthanasia is predicted by ethical consideration and naturalistic belief. Active euthanasia is predicted by ethical consideration, practical consideration, and naturalistic belief. Besides, male students have higher preferences in passive euthanasia.

Conclusions: This study reflects invaluable data and insight on euthanasia with a certain degree of acceptance among students toward various euthanasia. A discussion forum to enhance different stakeholders, e.g., the general public, caregivers, terminally ill patients, healthcare professionals, legal and religious sectors, understanding of ethical, medical, and legal aspects are suggested. More focused and in-depth studies of patients' and caregivers' attitudes are also recommended.