The death of comedian Joan Rivers may provide an unwelcome, but much-needed warning to many that medical emergencies can strike at any time. This can leave family members and medical personnel to make difficult decisions regarding end-of-life care.
Rivers, 81, suffered cardiac and respiratory arrest while undergoing surgery last week. She was rushed to the hospital and placed on life support. But after more than a week, her daughter Melissa made the decision to remove her mother from life support, reports the New York Daily News.
While it may be difficult or unpleasant to discuss, what factors may affect the decision to remove someone from life support? Here are three legal facts that can come into play:
If you have questions on how to ensure your wishes regarding life-sustaining medical aid are followed in the event that you are unable to make the decision yourself, an experienced estate planning attorney can help explain your legal options.
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- Joan Rivers dies at age 81 (CNN)
- Brain-Dead Pregnant Woman’s Husband Sues Hospital (FindLaw’s Injured)
- Jahi McMath Case: What Is Brain Death? (FindLaw’s Law and Daily Life)
- Do You Need a Living Will? (FindLaw’s Law and Daily Life)
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