Like Riding a Roller Coaster in the Dark

Ventilator Use

Lou Foglia recounts the agonizing decisions surrounding his father's ventilator use. He describes the emotional turmoil and uncertainty, likening it to a "roller coaster ride in the dark" 1. The family faced a critical moment when the attending physician asked whether to include a do not resuscitate (DNR) order in his father's chart, a decision fraught with potential consequences 1.

My father had been on a ventilator for eleven days when the attending physician at the intensive care unit called and asked whether they should include a do not resuscitate order in his chart.

--- Lou Foglia

Ultimately, the family decided to reintubate if necessary, but the emotional weight of these decisions was immense 2.

   

DNR Order

The discussion around the DNR order for Lou's father was a pivotal moment. Lou discovered his father's healthcare directive, which clearly stated his wish not to be resuscitated or supported by a ventilator for an extended period 3. This discovery brought a mix of relief and guilt, as Lou had already approved extensive medical interventions 3.

I found the healthcare directive. It was clear, do not resuscitate. I was relieved. We wouldn't have to make what felt like an impossible decision.

--- Lou Foglia

The emotional burden of these decisions weighed heavily on Lou, highlighting the profound impact of such directives during critical moments 1.