Similar to other studies, WD/WHLS was the most common cause of death in academic ICUs and poor patient prognosis was considered the most important factor in deciding on WDLS. However, in contrast to other studies, future quality of life was not as frequently cited a reason for WDLS and larger amounts of morphine were used during WDLS. These discrepancies suggest areas for potential future research.

The incidence of WD/WHLS was similar in community hospitals and teaching hospitals; however, withholding of life support was more common in community hospitals. The process of WDLS appears to differ between community hospitals and teaching hospitals.