When discussing patient rights and whom should decide when a certain medical treatment is appropriate or futil

Answer 1

If a patient is over the age of 18 than they make all decisions about their own health care unless or until they are unable. A patient also has the right to sign a legal document called an 'Advanced Directive' which would describe the type of treatment you want if you were in a coma or if your condition was such that you would not recover. Usually an advanced directive tells a doctor what kinds of treatment you do not want to prolong your life . . this goes along with the Do Not Resuscitate Orders. A DNR order will be placed on your medical records to indicate that you do not want to be resuscitated in the event that your heart stops or you are no longer breathing. You can change or modify your advance directive at any time as long as you are of sound mind.

Answer 2

If the patient is mentaly capable of making decisions, then they should be the one making the decision.

If their mental capacity is diminished (youth, unconcious, dementia, brain injury etc) then either their next of kin or appointed guardian should make the decision.

If you are not comfortanble with your next of kin making such a decision on your behalf, then you should appoint a medical power of attourney while capable.

Answer 3

thats why they have living wills my son and daughter together are named in it to make any decision involving my care. my wishes are written out too in the living will to be followed.