Questions to Ask Yourself about Advanced Directives

When I sit down with folks to discuss what they would like for an advanced directive, most say I don’t want to be put on any machines and I don’t want any heroic measures. Sometimes when I press this statement, a potential client admits that they would choose to be on a ventilator for a short period time (3 to 10 days) and then if things are futile they would want to be removed.

When you are preparing your advanced directive, spend some time and think about what you really want and work out the scenarios so your healthcare providers and love ones know exactly how you would like to handle the situation if it arises.