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> BTW, our doc told us that if one is terminal and does not want life > >support measures, "don't call 911" as it is their designated job to try >to > resuscitate everyone! > > In the event of terminal illness, Hospice is able to address the difficult issues concerning continued treatment. PD patients in end-stage disease are certainly candidates for this service, and the families of such patients should feel comfortable petitioning their physicians for the necessary orders to enter into Hospice. When a Hospice patient dies, the emergency personnel called to the scene to remove the body have clear orders not to resuscitate. Also, Hospice personnel are frequently present at the moment of death, and help the family before, during, and after the event to deal with the on-going emotions loved ones inevitably experience. Families of terminal PD patients need to understand that extraordinary treatment including feeding tubes and the administration of antibiotics in the event of infection need not be employed. Once again, Hospice helps to sort these issues out with families. In the face of removal of treatment, the consideration of euthanasia need not be made - death occurs naturally, and quickly. Incidently, I'm not a Hospice nurse, but I've taken care of plenty of Hospice patients and am impressed with the service. ------ Mary Ann