[Taking decisions at the end of life. A survey of the attitude of critically ill patients against death].

Background And Objective: An attitude of refusal regarding death still persists in our society and the majority of patients do not usually take decisions related to the end of life.

Subjects And Method: From June 1st to December 31st, 2000, 88 first-degree relatives were interviewed concerning patient's preparation before his/her death. Patients considered to be candidates to take decisions about end of life were those with poor quality of life and previously admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).