In an opinion essay for STAT, bioethicist M. Sara Rosenthal argues that the botched execution of Christa Pike in Tennessee may mark the end of lethal injection. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, Pike's failed execution is unprecedented in the modern era, making her the first prisoner to survive a complete execution attempt in U.S. history.
Rosenthal draws parallels to Ethel Rosenberg's 1953 electrocution, which also failed and required multiple rounds. She notes that lethal injection was originally designed as a more humane alternative, but has deviated from the standard protocol due to difficulties obtaining drugs and a lack of skilled personnel. Because medical associations deem participation in executions unethical, prisons often rely on unqualified staff, leading to botched procedures.
The case raises a "hot mess" of clinical ethics questions, Rosenthal writes. After Pike survived, she was rushed to the hospital for lifesaving treatment, prompting questions about whether the goal was to stabilize her for another execution attempt. The author contends that health care providers should not lend the prestige of medicine to executions, and that the Pike case may have "dizzying legal repercussions."