Hi. I have a question about the legality of choosing to turn off the respirator if one is tired of being on it. The respirator is considered an extraordinary measure. Does one have to have a living will to state that no extraordinary measures should be taken if one chooses to die?
Or can one ask someone to disconnect them from the respirator?
I wish you had given your name because this is a personal decision that is so difficult to consider and discuss impersonally. I know I will face the same decision, and a feeling that someone "cares" can make a difference. Not in the decision, but in my own mind and emotions when the time comes. Please know we care.
As relates to your question, I assume there is no "Living Will".
Is there a "Power of Attorney"? If so, is a "HIPAA" clause included?
If there is neither, are you the spouse, only child, or "a" child?
GENERALLY ..
Physicians are not allowed to "terminate" life without "legal consent" or "justifiable circumstances". Justifiable circumstances leave such a wide range of questions most physicians will avoid the decision like the plague when any family, friend, or acquaintance (involved persons) is known to be present and may offer resistance to the decision to terminate life.
INVOLVED PERSON
Parents .. Spouse .. Children .. Companion .. Friend - or an associate "with interest".
Legal consent can be by any of the documents listed above, or by the spouse, in most cases. You'll have to sign a "Release" (Consent to Death) form.
If children, parents or any "Involved Person" becomes involved and do not agree, you have a problem! Court will be involved.
SPECIFICALLY ..
Inform the physician that you wish for "life Support" to be terminated. If you are the spouse (most States) or only child your wish will be granted as long as there is no hope of recovery.
Just remember - physicians cover THEIR butt - not yours. Sign the forms, hold their hand, and give them peace at Home.
Charlie
eath is personal decision
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