COPD

[Davy9]

Jinny you are doing all that can be done as a loving family member. You are there for her. You listen to her. You are concerned about her condition, her discomfort and her future. Work to ease her mind. Let her know that things that are important to her are being taken care of and that she does not need to worry about them. Try and do or give her things to occupy her mind. Music she might enjoy, games, conversation, whatever will shift her thoughts to greater contentment.

[Jinny]

It is my understanding now that they have discontinued the feeding tube feedings. Also, I have heard from a family member that the ventillator will be discontinued in the next day or so. My sister, although lethargic most of the time, is still alert enough to go to the commode when asked if she needs to. Is it possible that they can discontinue the vent and just let her pass by giving her additional morphene??? Just curious how that goes. I had thought that she would go into a coma and then would pass......

[Davy9]

It is her choice to decide if and when to end the mechanical support. Now they could have any number of medications on board or at the ready when this happens. Some places might allow her to be put into a drug induced coma prior to the event. Find out beforehand and understand how it will be managed. There are patches for delivering these meds and they can also be given sublingual for very fast response without having to swallow.

There are many ways to approach the situation and you need to ask how it will be done and how she can be kept as comfortable as possible. Inquire also about the anticipated response times if you wish to be present or have some final words before hand. Best of everything.

[Jinny]

I apologize for not updating you. My sister passed away on Aug 22nd approximately 5 hours after
they had shut off the vent. We were all able to be there with her and say our last words. It appeared to be peaceful, tho I know the morphene did that. Again, I cannot say how appreciative I was that I actually found this forum and it got me through one of the worst times of my life. I hope that I will be able to be a help to some other person in need at a time when they are confused and looking for support and answers. Your help and kindness helped me beyond words. Thank you for being the friends I needed at that dark time.

[Davy9]

Hello Jinny,

I am glad to hear that things went peacefully. Now I hope that the family can move ahead keeping this loved one in fond memories and feeling good about the manner of her passing. Continued good fortune to you all. Dave

[Jinny]

Thank you............