Le principe du double effet : un outil aidant à la réflexion éthique dans le cadre de la sédation pour détresse en phase terminale

The first part of our reflection shows that a double effect can be used to reply to this question. In the second part, we will review criticisms concerning the principle of the double effect. The main criticism concerns the leading role of the clinician's intent in application of the double effect. Some authors deny the objective feature of intent and maintain that it is impossible to use the double effect in practice. We respond to this criticism stressing the fact that intent leaves a mark on what it inspires and as such enables a retrospective evaluation of the clinician's primary intent.