Prevalence of torture and trauma history among immigrants in primary care in Denmark: do general practitioners ask?

Background: Torture survivors typically present with varied and complex symptoms, which may challenge assessment by general practitioners (GPs). This study explored the prevalence of torture and trauma history among immigrants born in non-Western countries presenting to GPs in Denmark and the extent to which GPs ask this population about torture or trauma history.

Methods: Based on a self-reported questionnaire among non-western immigrant patients, we used bivariate analyses to determine the prevalence of torture and trauma history and the proportion of patients being asked by their GP about this.

[Discontinuation of futile therapy].

It is now documented that intensive care units do consider whether treatments promote "the good" and serve patients best. Uncritical use of technology to prolong the dying process must be avoided, and palliative principles worked out. Decisions to withhold or withdraw treatment are among the toughest for both patients and physicians.