Going home from ICU to die: a celebration of life.
There is much literature regarding going home to die in terminally ill cancer patients however, little is written about withdrawing treatment at home in critical care. One intensive care unit's experience in New Zealand demonstrates how this can be done safely. The preparation of families and patients must be done with great care. There are challenges to be overcome including supportive resources in the community, staffing and safety of the patient and family. It is possible to withdraw/withhold treatment in a patient's home and this is highly valued by the families.
Ryder-Lewis
Michelle
M
ICU, Wellington Hospital, New Zealand. michelle.ryder_lewis@ccdhb.org.nz
D001293:Attitude to Death; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D018575:Home Care Services, Hospital-Based; D017051:Hospice Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D008297:Male; D009520:New Zealand; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods*; D010351:Patient Discharge; D012297:Right to Die; D019452:Terminally Ill / Q000523:psychology; D028761:Withholding Treatment