let's talk ventilators

You are going to need to click on the photo below in order to make it large enough to clearly read (you may then print it out). BUT - it's worth it. Over the years, on this blog, there have been a number of posts focusing on the need to have advanced care planning conversations with those you love. Now it is more important than ever.  

Here is why. While all people may contract COVID-19, regardless of age and how healthy (or not) they are, we also know that individuals who are older, that have pre-existing medical problems, are more likely to get a severe form of the illness and are also more likely to die as a result.    

Unlike other posts, where I have discussed "code status" or consideration of what it means to be "DNR" (do not resuscitate), this handout is specifically to help you with a discussion of whether or not you would want to go on a ventilator.  This is not a decision that should be made at the last minute, and it is best made by a well informed patient rather than their family member. Which means YOU have to think about it in advance and be sure the person who is your designated medical decision maker knows what YOU want. In the very best case scenario, you as a patient would have this conversation with your primary care provider AND your medical DPOA.  

These are unprecedented times. It is very possible, some would say likely, that we are going to face a shortage of ventilators in this country. For some, a decision to go on a ventilator is the absolute right thing for them. I also think it would be a terrible thing, in a time of shortage, to put someone on a ventilator who knows they would not want to be on one, or who likely wouldn't want to be on one, but haven't taken the time to think about it in advance.  

As always, post your questions/reflections about this in the comments section. 

Comments

[Nancy Brill]

Thanks for the information. I'm 84, in good health and have self-isolated for the past four weeks. I'm reasonably confident that I won't get the virus, but it would be stupid to not make preparations for the possibility. I've been thinking about this for a couple of weeks; in the end, death is unavoidable and I see no reason to attempt to prolong my life by artificial means. I'll be making this plain to my family in the next few days, thanks for the nudge to take care of it sooner rather than later.
I much enjoy your blog, lived in Ozawkie for a year or so twenty years ago, I still miss Lawrence. Stay well, take care

[Sharron Carleton]

Very much appreciate this clarification of choices, xox

[Mary]

Thanks for sharing ths document, Carol. I really like how clear and direct it is and the section on values. Have you seen the op-ed in the NY Times on this topic? It was published on April 4, "What You Should Know Before You Need a Ventilator."

[Chris Oliveira]

Thank you - we found this chart very helpful. It was also helpful to have straightforward information about the percentage of people who survive after being placed on a ventilator if they have Covid 19.

[Jennifer Pfanmiller]

This....thank you.

[Vicki in Michigan]

Thank you.

[Dianne]

Thanks, Carol. As always, your straightforward approach and information are much appreciated. Stay safe! We here in small town California are self-isolating and sheltering in place, with a vengeance. Stay safe!

[Emie]

Thank you Carol. Very informative. The information you share is invaluable.

[maria]

Thank you, Carol. Yes, it freaks me out, but yes im glad to have this info. Blessings!

[carol]

Thanks everyone for letting me know this was helpful to you.

[Donda]

Hi Carol, I check in on your blog occasionally and am always thankful for your insight. As someone who has a serious illness, I struggled for many years to put into writing what I wanted at the end of my life. Your insight and mater-of-fact way of speaking about such topics really helped me define what I wanted and face the questions I had been avoiding. This post is no different. Thank you.

[carol]

Donda: I am always glad to help people understand how important this is, and just what's at stake. Thanks for your comment.