Abstract

The Stability of Preferences for Life-Sustaining Care Among Persons With AIDS in the Boston Health Study

Weissman J S~~Haas J S~~et al

Year: 1999 Source: Medical Decision Making, v.19, no.1, (January-March 1999), p.16-26 SIEC No: 19990429

This study explored the attitudes of AIDS patients towards end-of-life treatment. The researchers administered 2 surveys 4 months apart & then reviewed the medical records of 252 patients with AIDS. The results showed that about one-fourth of AIDS patients changed their minds about life-sustaining care over the 4 month period. Changes in physical functioning, pain, or thoughts of suicide were more apt to modify a patient’s decision about resuscitation.