WLST

Full Definition

Withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy (WLST) refers to the deliberate discontinuation of medical interventions that are prolonging life in critically ill patients when the focus of care shifts from cure to comfort. In neurocritical care, WLST decisions often follow determinations of neurological futility, such as devastating brain injury with poor prognosis for meaningful recovery. The process involves careful communication with families, ethics consultation when appropriate, and systematic discontinuation of interventions such as mechanical ventilation, vasopressors, and artificial nutrition. WLST should be distinguished from withholding therapy and must follow established institutional protocols to ensure appropriate palliative care during the transition.

Usage

Usage note: Spell out on first use; distinguish from other end-of-life terminology in documentation.

In Context

• "The family elected for WLST following extensive discussions about the patient's poor neurological prognosis." — ethics consultation note
• "WLST protocols ensure dignified end-of-life care while addressing family concerns and institutional policies." — policy documentation