Living Will

[Pharlap]

I have made a living will and also carry a DNR card which I have printed myself. If or when the situation arises what, in the real world, will actually happen. I.E do hospitals really carry out your wishes, or do they ignore them and do what they think is best.

[bednobs]

if you were to drop down int he street, i would think it very unlikely that passers by would not call an ambulance, and unless they know you, how will they know you have a card. therefore, they will resuscitate you. You need to speak with your family about your wishes

[C-C]

On your death, a hospital would look for a donor card and carry out your wishes if suitable. Under no circumstances would the hospital ignore your wish.

[antiguru]

A&E departments try and follow patient wishes, but are guided first and foremost by the Hypocratic Oath. They will resuscitate you unless they are absolutely sure of your wish to be DNR.

Your home made card may not be sufficient to convince them to withhold treatment. As the law stands at the moment a donor card (which, C-C, is not what Pharlap was referring to) would only indicate your wishes, but your next of kin still have to agree.

You must tell your next of kin and close friends what you want them to agree to and make sure they can find at least a certified copy of your Living Will quickly in the event of them being called to the hospital in an emergency. They will almost certainly have to show it to a doctor to persuade him to withhold treatment.

You should make sure your GP is aware of your wishes too. If you require long term care (which for those of you that don�t have one is really what a Living Will seeks to control) he/she will be involved in that process too.

Hope this helps.

AG

[Pharlap]

Thanks to all replys. you have given me more help than I thought