Thread by @meta4RN

Just to reassure those alarmed by the “Voluntary should mean voluntary” campaign, neither patients or health professionals will be pressured into voluntary assisted dying.

See sections 1.46 and 14.96 in “A legal framework for voluntary assisted dying” qlrc.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/… 1/7

The proposed Queensland #VAD law is similar to the existing legal framework for termination of pregnancy: neither patients/women or clinicians are forced into dong something they object to. The proposed Queensland voluntary assisted dying law has additional safeguards. 2/7

For example, a patient safeguard includes: “The process of request and assessment involves three separate requests that are clear and documented. The process has a waiting period of at least 9 days between the first and final request.” See section 8.477 in the framework. 3/7

An example of a safeguard for health practitioners includes provision for conscientious objection (see section 8.103) and “The practitioner must have completed the approved training before they accept a transfer of the role of administering practitioner.” (section 13.187) 4/7

In February 2021 the @qnmuofficial asked members if they support in principal the legalisation of voluntary assisted dying in Queensland. Approximately 87% of respondents said ‘yes’. The 13% who are not comfortable with #VAD will not be compelled to become involved. 5/7

Voluntary Assisted Dying in Queensland is an important issue for the community and health professionals. Our elected parliamentary representatives will be debating #VAD in 10 days time. 6/7

https://twitter.com/annastaciamp/status/1432256760253857801

Like many other Queensland nurses, I’ve seen circumstances where the best efforts of the clinical team and palliative care service has not delivered on the patient’s wish for a death with dignity. We should let our politicians know what we know. meta4RN.com/VAD 7/7

unroll please @threadreaderapp (might blog this to increase reach, and access those who don’t access twitter)