Care at the End of Life

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning about end-of-life care:	What kinds of care are available at the end of life? What is hospice? How can I be sure my doctors will respect my wishes as I approach death? Do I need a living will? What is the dying process like? Will I be in pain?
Getting treatment:	Where should I receive treatment? Should I receive artificial hydration and nutrition? Should I receive CPR and mechanical ventilation? Should I stop kidney dialysis? Should I stop receiving life-prolonging treatment?
Ongoing concerns:	If I choose to go to a nursing home, what should I look for? What will my family and loved ones need to know? What will happen after my death? Should I have an autopsy done on my loved one?

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Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: July 14, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Shelly R. Garone, MD - Palliative Care
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