Page 12 - GBGH Patient Handbook

Consent for Treatment

When you are admitted to the hospital, part of your care may include tests such
as X-rays, urine tests, blood tests, etc. that normally happen during a patient’s
hospital stay. Your doctor or health professional will explain other procedures
that are more involved. You may be asked to give verbal or written consent for
these tests or procedures.

YOUR WISHES MATTER

People rarely plan to become ill. It is important that your physician and other
members of the health care team understand your wishes around the type of
care you would like to receive if you were to become critically ill or lose your
ability to make decisions. Please provide a copy of any advance care planning
documents you may have to a member of your care team. These documents
will be kept confidential and recorded in your permanent medical record. For
more information, check out the Advance Care Planning Workbook – Ontario
Edition available at https://www.makingmywishesknown.ca/

Resuscitation

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a group of treatments used when a
person stops breathing or when their heart stops beating. CPR is made up of
different treatments, these include: chest compressions, application of energy
to re-organize the heart rhythm, insertion of a breathing tube and ventilation
support. You may choose to have all of these treatments done, some of these
treatments, or none of these treatments.

At GBGH, all patients will receive CPR unless they have informed their healthcare
team they do not wish to receive CPR. While CPR can save lives, it may not be
beneficial for all patients. In some cases, it may even be harmful. Talk to your
doctor about your treatment options. Patients who do not wish to receive CPR
will receive supportive care. Supportive care looks different for every patient,
but may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, oxygen, medications and non-
pharmacological treatments to manage pain, shortness of breath, anxiety and
restlessness.

Substitute Decision Makers

We recommend you speak with your loved ones about your wishes and know
who would make decisions on your behalf if you were to become unable to
make decisions. It is important that you appoint someone whom you trust to
speak for you. The Powers of Attorney booklet published by the Ministry of the
Attorney General is available upon request. Please advise your health care
team if you would like assistance with this process. Always bring a copy of your
most recent Power of Attorney to the hospital.

12 www.gbgh.on.ca