advanced directives

In brief, advance directives allow individuals to indicate to their family members and physicians their choices regarding life-prolonging medical treatments and other pertinent issues. With advance directives, individuals can control their own medical care in the event of incapacitation, thereby limiting the influence of healthcare providers and the legal system. Examples of advance directives include living wills, designating a health care proxy and giving a “Do Not Resuscitate” order.  For more information about advance directives, contact Social Services at 338-7131.

ethics committee

Feelings of anxiety and uncertainty often affect both you and your family when you are hospitalized. Sometimes you or your family members may have a dilemma related to your plan of care and may need the advice of the organizational Ethics Committee. The Ethics Committee provides a consulting service to patients, physicians and hospital personnel when ethical considerations or personal dilemmas arise regarding the extent of treatment of irreversible or terminal conditions.  Often, the Ethics Committee is convened when involved parties disagree with the treatment plan.

If you feel that you or your family members would like to meet with the Ethics Committee, or if you would like the committee to review your care in terms of planned treatment for your irreversible or terminal condition, inform your nurse.  Your nurse will make the necessary arrangements.