I
have the right: -
·
To
be treated as a human being until I die.
·
To
be able to spend closure time with family and friends.
·
To
maintain a sense of hopefulness however changing its focus might be.
·
To
be cared for by those who can maintain a sense of hopefulness, however changing
this might be.
·
To
express my feelings and emotions about my approaching death in my own way.
·
To
participate in decisions concerning my care.
·
To
expect continuing medical and nursing care even though “cure” goals must change
to ‘comfort “ goals.
·
Not
to die alone.
·
To
be free from pain.
·
To
have all of my questions answered honestly.
·
Not
to be deceived.
· To die in peace and
with appropriate dignity.
·
To
retain my individuality and not be judged for my decisions which may be
contrary to the beliefs of others.
·
To
discuss and engage in my unique religious /spiritual experiences, whatever
these may mean to others.
·
To
expect that the sanctity of the human body will be respected after death.
·
To
be cared for by caring sensitive and knowledgeable people who will attempt to
understand my needs and who will be able to gain some professional satisfaction
in helping me face my death.
·
To expect that any
wishes expressed in a signed living will, will be honoured by both the medical
staff and my family whether or not they agree with the terms as stated.
·
That in the
absence of a living will, that my designated health care proxy or immediate
next-of-kin will act to ensure that my previously expressed wishes will be
respected if I am unable to speak for myself.
·
I
have the right to have help from and for my family in accepting my death.
·
To
be advised of any change in the plan of care before the change is made
·
To
participate in the planning of the care and in planning changes in the care,
and to be advised that they have the right to do so
·
To
refuse services and to be advised of the consequences of refusing care
·
To
request a change in caregiver without fear of reprisal or discrimination
·
There has been pleasure in my life, moments of pride, moments of
love. Please give me some time to recollect those moments. And please listen to
my recollections.
·
Please help me find some sense of purpose in my last days.
·
People often - far too often - come to me wearing masks of
seriousness. Although dying, I still need to laugh. Please laugh with me and
help others to laugh as well.
·
It is difficult to leave behind all my attachments and all that I
love. Please allow me the opportunity to be angry and sad.
The initial 16 rights listed here were
created at a workshop, “ The Terminally Ill Patient and the Helping Person ”
in Lansing, Michigan sponsored by the South Western Michigan In-service
Education Council and conducted by Amelia Barbus (1975), Associate Professor of
Nursing, Wayne State University.
Others have been added over the years from a
variety of sources.
This will always be a work-in-progress.
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