Aetna Compassionate Care Program

Care at the End of Life

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning about end-of-life care:	What kinds of care are available at the end of life? What is hospice? How can I be sure my doctors will respect my wishes as I approach death? Do I need a living will? What is the dying process like? Will I be in pain?
Getting treatment:	Where should I receive treatment? Should I receive artificial hydration and nutrition? Should I receive CPR and mechanical ventilation? Should I stop kidney dialysis? Should I stop receiving life-prolonging treatment?
Ongoing concerns:	If I choose to go to a nursing home, what should I look for? What will my family and loved ones need to know? What will happen after my death? Should I have an autopsy done on my loved one?

By:

Healthwise Staff

Last Revised: July 14, 2008

Medical Review:

Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Shelly R. Garone, MD - Palliative Medicine

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Topic Contents
�	Overview
�	Health Tools�
	FAQs
�	Important Decisions
�	Where to Receive Care
�	The Dying Process
�	After Death
�	Other Places To Get Help
�	Related Information
�	References
�	Credits