Originally Posted by working4aBSN
I can understand the frustration being asked to make a decision just 24 hours after the event. It is hard to be nonjudgemental being the field we work in on a daily basis and we see how some of these patients do suffer. I have been on the other side of the fence also and it is a very hard decision to make. You really need factor the of what would the patient want.. would they want to be on life support and have their chest beat on from CPR repeatedly and all these medications being adminstered just to keep them alive? That is why I firmly believe in a living will and advance directives for patients. I also believe talking to family members before anything happens about my wishes. I want them to know that I do not want my end of life sustained through artifical means. I want to be made comfortable and let go peacefully. I think communication is the key factor.
EXCELLENT post.
It's extremely difficult for me to watch a patient needlessly suffer for days on end while the family agonizes over a decision. Clear communication and documentation of wishes could prevent a lot of that.
Would you like to comment?
