Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Assessment and Communication for People with Disorders of Consciousness
Published on: August 1, 2017
Are living wills useful? In search of a new paradigm
1Bridgeport Hospital, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA. pcmant@bpthosp.org
Abstract:
Living wills are written by patients to direct physicians and loved ones as to the medical care they want in the event of catastrophic illness that is accompanied by inability to communicate their wishes. We outline recent data suggesting that living wills are poorly understood by patients who have them and that the usefulness of these documents in the clinical arena is extremely limited. Potential solutions for current deficiencies in end-of-life care and decision-making are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Standards of Care II
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
Ethical Dilemmas II
Kubler Ross's Stages of Dying
In denial, individuals reject the reality of their condition, often thinking, "This isn't true; I feel fine," as a way to protect themselves from emotional distress. Anger...
Continuing Care
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
