It’s hard to fathom the decision-making process that physicians have to deal with every day. But if they did not have systems for making fast choices, more lives would be lost in emergency rooms and surgical suites all around the country. This is partially why doctors who handle monumental decisions often go through training beyond the four years of medical school.
In the case of brain injuries, the calculus may not be as quick, but it is just as vital. New guidelines among brain care specialists are causing some new thoughts about the length of time a person may suffer a brain injury and still be a good candidate for long-term care.
Many physicians will start talking to families or others with a power of attorney about removing life support after three to five days of dealing with a brain injury. A new study seemed to confirm that patients unresponsive to care three days after a serious traumatic or medical problem in the brain have a low chance of recovery.
Families always have the choice of giving someone a chance to get better, but the decision is very difficult for people who are not trained for it. Doctors often try to give families the best chance at emotional health by making the decision as quickly as possible.
Victims of serious brain injuries and the survivors of people who die with them may have a case of financial damages if someone was liable for the cause of it. An attorney can help advise on whether this is the best way to get past it.