Difference between revisions of "Preparing for the Death of a Loved One"

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{{A Death in Your Family TOC}}Grieving is an important process that requires more time than people often acknowledge or allow. Support during time of bereavement can help bring healing, renewal, and hope for the future.  
== Preparing for the Death of a Loved One==
 
The anticipated death of a loved one is a difficult time. Here are some practical steps to help prepare everyone for what lies ahead.
Family and friends can be a great source of comfort. Expressing your feelings with them can help you in the grieving process.  
=== The No CPR Form===
 
Some people approaching the natural end of their lives or suffering from a life-limiting illness decide to not have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other emergency medical procedures provided if their heart or lungs stop. This decision can be recorded in a “No CPR Form”. This form is a medical order that says the person has had a conversation with a healthcare professional about CPR. It tells people such as first responders, paramedics and care providers not to start CPR on behalf of the person whether they are at home, in the community or in a care facility. You can obtain a copy of the No CPR Form on the HealthLinkBC website at www.healthlinkbc.ca or from a healthcare professional’s office. For the No CPR Form to be valid, it must be signed by a consenting adult (either the person approaching end of life or their substitute decision maker), and their doctor or nurse practitioner. Put the signed No CPR Form on the fridge at home so it can be easily seen. When away from home, carry the form so it’s available should it be needed.
You also may wish to link up with resources in the community that offer comfort, support, referrals, and services, when needed. The [http://www.bcbereavementhelpline.com BC Bereavement Helpline] is a free and confidential service that connects the public to grief support services within BC. See the [[Helpful Information When a Family Member Dies|Helpful Information]] section for <span class="noglossary">contact</span> details and further options for bereavement support.
 
{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2012}}
 
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Revision as of 03:37, 19 January 2017

Preparing for the Death of a Loved One[edit]

The anticipated death of a loved one is a difficult time. Here are some practical steps to help prepare everyone for what lies ahead.

The No CPR Form[edit]

Some people approaching the natural end of their lives or suffering from a life-limiting illness decide to not have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other emergency medical procedures provided if their heart or lungs stop. This decision can be recorded in a “No CPR Form”. This form is a medical order that says the person has had a conversation with a healthcare professional about CPR. It tells people such as first responders, paramedics and care providers not to start CPR on behalf of the person whether they are at home, in the community or in a care facility. You can obtain a copy of the No CPR Form on the HealthLinkBC website at www.healthlinkbc.ca or from a healthcare professional’s office. For the No CPR Form to be valid, it must be signed by a consenting adult (either the person approaching end of life or their substitute decision maker), and their doctor or nurse practitioner. Put the signed No CPR Form on the fridge at home so it can be easily seen. When away from home, carry the form so it’s available should it be needed.