Editor: I am writing in response to ‘Colour-code health care providers according to stance on assisted death,” the Times, May 13.
I found this extremely offensive to all the extremely dedicated doctors, nurses and every other provider of care on the health team
As a retired nurse with over 40 years’ experience I can only surmise that the author of this letter had an agenda or was poorly informed and/or educated as to the intent of “assisted death.”
I would urge all to have the discussion with their doctor, their loved ones and any others that are involved in end-of-life decisions.
Don’t be afraid of the conversation.
Visit a hospice or palliative care unit.
Have your wishes documented with a witness present.
If at some point you change your mind about “Code status” or any other aspect of your care, you can reverse your decision.
Carry the information with you in case of an emergency admission to the hospital or you are involved in an accident.
To actually say or imply that nurses and doctors would neglect, mistreat or out-and-out poison by injection or pill is almost slanderous.
Mary Bigg,
Langley