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As a FireFighter EMT you are dead wrong.  IF we ignore a valid DNR chances are we lose our Lic for malpractice, we will be sued by the family and no our employer is not going to defend us.  When we roll up on a 911 call and we are presented with a DNR and the patient is not breathing or has no pulse, that's it, we verify that they have died and call for the coroner.  If they are still breathing but in diificulty we will give O2, we will transport but we will not take heroic measures.  If there is a DNR and a Durable Power of Attorney and you are unable to communicate and if  the named person [of the DPA] is in attendance we will ask that person what would you like us to do as they are legally speaking for the ill person, and we will follow their instructions.

----- Original Message -----

From: Susan

To: ridecamp@xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 7:35 PM

Subject: RE: [RC] helmet thread

Additional information on DNR?s. If you have a DNR make sure you tell your family and neighbors NEVER to call 911 for you. Because once 911 is called they are honor bound to try and save your life even if it subsequently leaves you in a vegetative state. (even if you have the DNR in your hand)  So if you are willing to put that decision upon your family then trust in a DNR.

Susan

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From: ridecamp-owner@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:ridecamp-owner@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Karen Everhart
Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 6:31 PM
To: ridecamp@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: [RC] helmet thread

 

Kathie - a DNR means DO NOT RESUSCITATE - that means if your heart stops or you stop breathing that they are not to attempt to restart those biological functions.  It does not mean that if you are breathing on your own, though never regain consciousness, that they will pull the plug.  It does not mean that when you are unable to recognize anyone in your family or are drooling down your chest that they will take you out and shoot you.  It does not mean, when you must have your diaper changed or must be in a nursing home, that anyone will end your suffering.  So, please do not count on a DNR to save you from a head injury.  By the way, I hope you also have a medical power of attorney because if you are "young" enough and vital enough, your DNR may well be ignored by medical personnel.  AND, I hope that your DNR is also on your person in some form or, when you arrive at the ER, they may never know your advanced directive is in place.

 

Yes, we are policed, because we don't police ourselves very well.  The cost to each of your riding friends to provide for your medical care if you are severely injured, even IF you have insurance, is significant.  The cost to other drivers on the road, even IF you have insurance and choose not to wear your seatbelt and are severely injured in an accident, is significant.  We ALL share the burden of foolish choices made by others everyday and it is overwhelmingly expensive.

 

Statistics tell us that most equestrian related deaths result from head injuries.  Period. 

 

I have ALWAYS said that if an adult chooses not to wear a helmet, it is their choice AS LONG AS they can pay all the costs of an injury out of their own pocket.  NOT expecting insurance companies to cover their decisions, not having their friends, family and neighbors conduct fund raising events for them because they can no longer work so cannot afford the basic costs of living, etc.  If you are one of those folk, then by all means please go without a helmet because only THEN are you 100% accountable for your decision.

 

 

Karen Everhart MEd
Co-founder and Executive Director
Rainbow Meadows Rescue and Retirement, Inc.
Serving the equine companions who have so loyally served us...
www.rainbowmeadowsranch.com
620-725-3402

 

Owner/Operator Horse Calls - Equine Management Solutions
Centered Riding Instructor
Distance Horse Conditioning and Training
www.horsecalls.com
316-648-5082

Kathy wrote:

 

Well, I don't wear a helmet w/my mare because I just don't want to.

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