Abstract
On October 27, 1997, Oregon's Death With Dignity Act became law, thus legalizing physician-assisted suicide (PAS). This legislation, a morality policy, arose from patients' rights and right-to-die issues. Since the passing of this law, 246 Oregonians have committed PAS. Oregon's Death With Dignity policy development and policy modifications are analyzed using one specific policy development process model. The terms related to PAS are defined, the nurse's role is discussed, and the policy-making process is outlined. The role of advocates and opponents to this policy are considered throughout. This law has encountered many legal challenges since first passed by Oregon voters in 1994 and implemented in 1997. Some of these legal challenges and their current impact on the law and its related rules are considered and recommendations for nurses are proposed. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]