Euthanasia has been further defined as “active” or “passive.”

•    Active euthanasia refers to a physician deliberately acting in a way to end a patient’s life. There are three types of active euthanasia.

•    Voluntary euthanasia is one form of active euthanasia which is performed at the request of the patient.

•    Involuntary euthanasia, also known as “mercy killing,” involves taking the life of a patient who has not requested for it, with the intent of relieving his pain and suffering.

•    In nonvoluntary euthanasia, the process is carried out even though the patient is not in a position to give consent.

•    Passive euthanasia pertains to withholding or withdrawing treatment necessary to maintain life.