Voluntary euthanasia is defined as

• A. Euthanasia performed when competent patients voluntarily request or agree to it
• B. Euthanasia performed without patient consent
• C. Euthanasia performed only when patient is unconscious
• D. Euthanasia performed after a family vote

Answer: (A)

This definition centers on autonomy and informed consent. Voluntary euthanasia is euthanasia performed when a competent patient explicitly requests or agrees to it, with the patient understanding the options and consequences and no coercion involved. The emphasis on competence ensures the decision is truly self-directed, not made in a state of delirium or under pressure. Because the decision rests with the patient, a family vote or actions taken without the patient’s explicit consent do not fit this definition. In practice, voluntary euthanasia involves the patient’s clear, informed request, distinguishing it from scenarios where there is no patient consent or the patient cannot consent.