A document that specifies medical responses to presenting situations, usually centering on use of resuscitation and use of life support will that gives instructions to relatives regarding the care of one's body should they become terminally ill and unable to make rational decisions. Authorized by state law, this document directs that life not be artificially prolonged under the circumstance of incurable conditions certified to be terminal by two physicians. The document may include personalized instructions; e.g., specifying that artificial nutrition and hydration are to be construed as life-sustaining procedures. Two witnesses must sign the document.

In rather simple words, a written request that life not be prolonged by artificial means when death becomes inevitable.

Through advances in medical technology, some patients who formerly would have died can now be kept alive by artificial means. Sometimes a patient may desire such treatment because it is a temporary measure potentially leading to the restoration of health. At other times, such treatment may be undesirable because it may only prolong the process of dying rather than restore the patient to an acceptable quality of life. In any case, each person is seen, under the law, as having the personal right to decide whether to institute, continue or terminate such treatment. As long as a patient is mentally competent, he or she can be consulted about desired treatment. When a patient has lost the capacity to communicate, however, the situation is different.

You should realize that if you do not express your views, treatment to maintain your life, by whatever means available, will probably be provided once you are no longer able to communicate, even if family members object.

Therefore, if there are conditions under which you would not want treatment, it is important that you communicate your wishes while you are able to do so. In addition, because it is important that your wishes be documented in the most effective way possible, it is recommended that you consult your attorney in regard to the preparation of a health care declaration.

Speak and document, when you are able to, else later, someone else will decide what they want to. Talk to your family, doctor and health attorney.

There are basically two broad reasons to refuse a certain treatment. The first is that the benefit of the treatment is not great enough to justify its risk or discomfort. This is the basis for most treatment decisions,

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about What is a living will??
We want to hear your view. Write now!