medical authorization

[petero]

during a seizure admitted into the ER is there medical authorization if someone is in state of status epilepticus - with no medical authorization to anyone else does the ER have rights to invasive surgery on a patient in status epilepticus? is there medical authorization for invasive procedure if patirent is in status? how can I tell if I have something implanted in my head or spine?

 

[valeriedl]

I don't think that they would but I'm not sure about that.

Do you have an emergency contact? Discuss this with them about what you want and not want to have done. Also do the same thing with you dr, PCP and neurologist. They could maybe put something in your file stating what you want and don't want to have done to you.

 

[Rae1889]

1) the only time they will do any sort of invasive surgery on ANY patient (regardless of what the medical emergency is) is if it is to close off bleeding, or remove a foreign object. There is way too much involved that goes into brain surgery. The whole process takes about a week. They have to implant electrodes, and see where your speech and memory and movement centers are and where the seizures are coming from. Nothing that can be done during a moment of status.

2) I think you might be a bit paranoid as to things being implanted in you. Not to make that sound rude at all, but With something like brain surgery or having things implanted, you would A) have a scar on your head from temple to around the ear, or VNS surgery scar above your nipple or in your armpit. or B) you're family and friends would have noticed you missing for a week.

 

[Endless]

Petox,

Emergency surgery for a seizure is unlikely, so I wouldn't worry. They usually take care of status epilepticus with medication, and the medication works.

If you'd like more control over your body and your life in the hospital then write out a living will. It says what measures you want or don't want taken in the hospital to save your life, among other things. You also should have a medical power of attorney stating which family and friends can make medical decisions for you. These only kick in if you are unconscious or otherwise unable to make decisions for yourself.

You can use one of those prepackaged software programs to create those documents. Just writing them out yourself risks them not being legally binding or iron-clad.

While you're at it, a will is a good idea. Even a small amount is appreciated by family, friends, or your favorite charity. If you don't have a will some or all of your assets will go to the state (depending on what state you live in).

I had my living will and medical power of attorney put in my medical file at all the local hospitals and in my chart at each of my doctor's office. A copy of those documents and my will was also given to a good friend and also a family member. All this is in case of an emergency where I am unable to make decisions for myself.

It's not just unmarried people who need these documents. Everybody does.

 

[petero]

sorry everyone about my last few posts - I was having a very bad day yesterday

I appreciate your input though especially the living will etc.