They finally agreed to continue the ventilator but not to try further heroic measures. For this family, like many others, having an objective, caring health professional guide their discussions can prevent the anguished emotional struggle that comes with these decisions. My job is to make sure that families have all the information they need to understand the issues. I made the analogy that 'just because a house has electrical wiring doesn't mean the plugs are hot,' and he instantly got it. Limerick acts as a resource for families who have questions and as an advocate for the patient in suggesting comfort measures that may not always come to mind for the nursing staff or physicians.
Doctors take an oath to cure.
Dealing with patients who are dying can be very difficult for them. Because my specialty is palliative care rather than curing, I can focus more clearly on what might make the patient more comfortable. To request help from the Palliative Care Program, families can contact the nursing staff, case coordinator or the chaplain at the hospital where their loved one is being treated. All Rights Reserved.