When a loved one enters the final stages at the end of their life some big decisions need to be made. Hospice care switches the focus from treatment to management and emphasizes quality of life during an advanced life-limiting illness. The ultimate goal of hospice care is to provide the fullest and most comfortable life for the ill and their family. Hospice care does not hasten or postpone the end of a life but provides care to manage the symptoms of the disease.
Hopefully, a loved one already has a health care directive. If your loved one does not have a health care directive, and if they have the mental capacity to sign one, getting a Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care should be a priority. This document gives legal authority for another person to make medical decisions on behalf of a person who is ill and grants them the ability to be told medical information without violating HIPPA (medical privacy laws). The health care directive also acts as their voice for treatment preferences for the time when they are unable to voice their opinions themselves. A health care directive is not a do not resuscitate order (DNR).
During conversations with a loved one about end of life care, be sure to discuss their wishes on symptom management, the use of life support or foregoing life support, and burial or cremation desires. Although a health care directive may cover these points, as the agent you will ultimately have to speak with the doctors or health care providers and oversee the execution of those wishes. Similarly, if a loved one has signed a DNR, there are some steps and considerations you must take.
A DNR is only effective in dictating if CPR is used if breathing stops or heartbeat stops. A DNR does not instruct a doctor or medical professional about treatment, pain management, medications, nutrition, the use of ventilators, or other medical considerations.
The biggest and often the hardest decision for family and friends is to do nothing when a loved one does stop breathing or their heart stops if the loved one has indicated they do not wish to be resuscitated. If 911 is called and EMTs arrive, they will try to revive your loved one and take them to the hospital. If a loved one has a DNR bracelet or other form of notice the EMT may honor it, but out of an abundance of caution, they will likely still try to stabilize their patient. Although it may be shocking and difficult when the time comes, and against instinct, if a loved one has indicated they wish to pass, try to honor their wishes and allow them to pass peacefully.
At Grissom Law, we work with clients who are facing difficult medical decisions. From upcoming surgeries to unexpected medical diagnosis, to walking clients through elderly family members end of life care and decisions, we provide compassion and knowledge to assist you in making the best decisions for you and your family.
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This Blog/Web Site is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and Grissom Law, LLC.