Both federal and state laws govern the use of advance directives. The federal law, the Patient Self-Determination Act, requires health care facilities that receive Medicaid and Medicare funds to inform patients of their rights to execute advance directives. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws recognizing the use of advance directives. Truths Morphine, properly titrated, does not hasten death. Patients quickly adjust to any affect morphine may have on their breathing.
Doctors prescribe a small initial dose, gradually increasing if needed.
Morphine actually improves breathing for many dying persons and is often used even for persons without pain to improve very severe air hunger in terminal patients. Myth Giving patients morphine will make them addicted and physically impaired. Truths True pain is a total antidote in the body for morphine. Only that portion which exceeds the pain produces problems. A person with exact pain-morphine match can work a crossword puzzle or drive a car until the very late stages of illness incapacitate him.