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Q. My father has just asked me to be his health care power of attorney. I am not sure what that entails and what my responsibilities would be. We have a good relationship and I am willing to help him (he is 78 and in fairly good health). In the worst case scenario what would this mean? (From a son in Dodgeville)
A. This is a great question because there is a lot of confusion about health care power of attorney and what that entails.
The power of attorney or “agent” is a person who has the permission to make health care decisions for the “principal” (in your case your father) in the event of incapacitation.
The fact that he asked you to do this means he trusts you and that is something to honor.
Your next step is to have a good conversation with him about what kind of medical treatment he would want if he were to become incapacitated. In other words, does he want CPR performed if his heart stops? Would he want a feeding tube inserted? How about being kept alive on a respirator?
There are many things that should be discussed. The document that outlines the extent of desired care is called “Advance Directives.” Copies of the document can be obtained from your physician or you can download a copy from the State of Wisconsin Web site: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/advdirectives/index.htm
Another thing I wanted to mention is that just because the power of attorney document has been created, it does not go into effect until it has been “activated.” That means that two different physicians or one physician and one licensed psychologist examine your father and sign a statement specifying that there is incapacity.
Although this is the kind of thing we hope we never have to act upon, it is truly an honor to be chosen as a spokesperson for a parent. I wish you both the best of luck!
Jean Mueller has been a registered nurse for over 30 years. Her experience includes working in home care settings, skilled nursing care, and training individuals to become certified nursing assistants. For the past 13 years she has worked in the Aging Services department of the Madison Diocese Catholic Charities. Questionsfor the “Ask Jean” column may be sent to Jean Mueller at jmueller@ccmadison.org