Ethics Article: Family Conferences - Faith Regional Health Services

Family Conference with the Ethics Committee

The purpose of the Family Conference

Faith Regional Health Services Vision Statement

May we have eyes to see all in our community,
especially those rendered invisible and excluded;

Open arms and hearts in a patient-centered environment to reach out and include patients, families, physicians and businesses;

Healing hands to touch their lives with love

And in the process, strengthen ourselves.

Serious illness can be a difficult time for families. The goal of Faith Regional Health Services is to provide quality , respectful care to you and your loved ones. As part of our goal to provide quality care, the hospital Ethics Committee is available to assist you with the difficult issues or decisions which may arise. A family conference with the Ethics Committee is available to assist you in securing information and coming to an understanding of treatment options and how they will affect you and your loved one.

Before arranging a conference, discuss your concerns with your physician; many times he or she can answer your questions and may be able to help you determine a course of treatment which best fits your patient’s needs.

Who will attend . . .

As family members, you may invite anyone who has a close relationship with the patient. This may include a spouse, parent, adult children, legal guardians, pastor, durable power of attorney, or others who will be involved in making health care decisions for the patient. Members of the Ethics Committee will also attend, and may include physicians, clergy, nursing staff, social workers or other representatives of the Ethics Committee.

What will happen . . .

Your nurse or physician may describe the medical condition of the patient, including what type of treatments and medications they have already received. You will be encouraged to describe any concerns you may have regarding available options for care. It will be helpful for you to talk about your feelings, the feelings of your loved one and yours or your patient’s desires regarding various procedures and treatments. Every question you ask will be answered as clearly and respectfully as possible. The meeting will be held in a private conference room in the hospital.

Assurances . . .

You and your family will be treated with dignity and respect throughout this meeting. A member of the Ethics Committee will take only general notes about the discussion and will not identify anyone by name. If any decisions are made, a note will be placed in the patient’s medical record which indicates your thoughts as well as those of the patient’s physician. All questions will be answered as clearly as possible and anyone who wishes to speak will be invited to do so. The committee will be sensitive to any of your religious, cultural or family beliefs.

How to prepare . . .

During this stressful time, it may be difficult for you to remember all the questions or issues you want to talk about in the meeting. It may help you to make a note of any questions or concerns before the meeting. If you wish, a member of the Ethics Committee may meet with you before the meeting to describe the process and ease any apprehension you may feel. The nurse who is caring for your loved one will be happy to contact any member of the Ethics Committee if you desire.

If you have questions, please contact the Faith Regional Health Services Spiritual Care Department, 402-644-7559 or the Social Services Department, 402-644-7533.

Ethics Corner Articles