A member asked:

Would an elderly demented person be admitted into icu and put on mechanical ventilation.?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

It happens: Pneumonia, heart failure, stroke, & serious injury are some of the more common reasons; it's important to consider the goals of care & realistic expectations. Patients/family/power of attorney should make it clear what level of support they feel is acceptable. It's ok to make comfort a priority & say "no" to the ventilator. It's also ok to say "yes". Best to discuss this before the crisis.

Answered 9/20/2013

5.9k views

Thank

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