The law provides that anyone whose life or bodily integrity is endangered has the right to receive the care required by his condition. Every institution shall, when requested, ensure that such care is provided. This right is also an obligation on the part of the establishment, which allows it to act and treat you if your life or integrity is in danger, even if you are unable to give your consent.

If you do not want to receive specific care, such as being resuscitated, it is therefore important to take mesures to ensure that this information is known. Carrying a card specifying the care you do not want or writing advance medical directives are two ways to make your wishes known before you find yourself in an emergency situation.

Felix is ​​unconscious

Felix arrives at the hospital unconscious. His condition is critical, but he cannot give his consent. However, he carries a card that clearly indicates that he refuses pain medication. The medical staff is obliged to take this into account and adjust the care given to Felix to respect his will.

Appropriate care... in long-term

Nicole lives in a residential and long-term care resource. Her state of health is declining and her relatives are worried about the care she will receive in case of an emergency. Nicole, accompanied by her family, writes her advance medical directives which specify, among other things, that she does not want to be resuscitated and does not wish to receive food gavage. She clearly communicates her wishes to the staff of the residence so that the appropriate measures can be taken if ever she is no longer able to give her consent.