It is morally unacceptable. Thus an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder gravely contrary to the dignity of the human person and to the respect due to the living God, his Creator. The error of judgement into which one can fall in good faith does not change the nature of this murderous act, which must always be forbidden and excluded. Even if death is thought imminent, the ordinary care owed a sick person cannot be legitmately interrupted. The use of painkilllers to alleviate the sufferings of the dying, even at the risk of shortening their days, can be morally in conformity with human dignity if death is not willed as either an end or a means, but only foreseen and tolerated as inevitable.
Palliative care is a special form of disinterested charity.
As such it should be encouraged. The dying should be given attention and care to help them live their last moments in dignity and peace. They will be helped by prayer of their relatives, who must see to it that the sick receive at the proper time the sacraments that prepare them to meet the living God. This information brings you the words of the Catechism on doctrinal and moral issues of great interest to people in our age. Since no single article can treat important issues of our faith comprehensively we urge you to go directly to the Catechism itself - read it, use it and make it your family treasure.