Question

Mr. Wiggins is a 78-year-old African American male with chronic kidney disease, which requires dialysis. The etiology of his renal disease was multifactorial—long-standing uncontrolled HTN and DM nephropathy. He has been on hemodialysis for the past 10 years and has done relatively well. Four weeks ago, he had a major CVA and is minimally responsive. His condition is not expected to change, and the family is having a difficult time with his recent health changes. Advanced directives were discussed with them, and his wife is a durable power of attorney for his health care. The wife hates to see her husband this way and understands this is not how he would want to go on, but their children and many of the family members (his brothers and sisters) think the patient will return to himself. They want everything done in terms of life support measures—full code status. His family wanted a feeding tube placed, and he is now receiving 24-hour tube feedings. You are the NP caring for Mr. Wiggins. You have known and cared for him and his wife for several years. The wife pulls you aside, shares her dilemma, and asks you to make the decision regarding continuing medical care/support for her husband. How will you respond?

Answer 1

Answer: As mentioned in the case, the patient shows no improvement as well as it should be noted that the healthcare professionals also considered that there would be no changes in the health of the patient. The health conditions of the patient would become adverse day by day. Wife of the patient who is durable power of attorney for his health care, also not able to see the condition of her husband. Hence it is important to provide opinion for the physician assisted suicide. This will free the patient from all sufferings. This would provide relief to the patient. The end of life decision should be made. The life supporting equipments should be removed.