Should We Withhold Life Support? The Mr. Martinez Case

Introduction

All healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, take an oath to regard patients'

requests and preferences while providing ethical hospital care. Regarding end-of-life care,

decisions should be guided by fundamental ethical principles (Akdeniz et al., 2021). This

paper will examine Mr. Martinez's case, who has COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary

disease)and just had a respiratory tract infection flare-up. This paper will focus on Mr.

Martinez's wishes, the family's choices, Mr. Martinez's overall life quality, and the ethical and

moral issues associated with end-of-life treatment.

Patient’s Quality of Life, Directives, and Family Preference

Mr. Martinez's present health situation is comprised of a long background of respiratory

issues and the use of many drugs to aid his breathing. The patient is presently hospitalized and

receiving fluids, oxygen, and antibiotics. Despite showing indications of recovery, the oxygen

was unintentionally switched off; as a result, his treatment team is required by law to delay

medical care and honor his wishes. In such instances, clinicians must respect patients' objections

to treatment. Regardless of whether it contradicts the provider's diagnostic evaluation, it raises

the patient's mortality risk (Gedge et al., 2007). Additionally, members of the family who oppose

the patient's early directives must keep their opinions to themselves and conform to the patient's

wishes.

If Mr. Martinez's health deteriorates, he and his spouse have decided that no life-saving

efforts, like DNR, should be done. In the situation of Mr. Martinez, the family's choice is for his

wife. The parties declare their acceptance of DNR procedures. Mrs. Martinez decides to accept

and respect her husband's choice.

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