Question asked by Ratna Ta
Hi, My name is Ratna, I am a nurse and work in the direct observation unit which most of the patient is critical (but less critical than intensive care unit ) I often encounter dying patient , most of them had given up hope because they are aware that that is impossible to get cured,or they think there is no more value to continue this life, often either per patient's own request or patient's family request to put in DNR ( do not resuscitate) status, no medical intervention , no medication ( except pain medication,), no chest compression, no intubation , no food, no hydration, so basically, just wait and let the patient go, when I saw the patient gasping for air, than eventually the breathing become weaker and weaker,the heart rate, blood pressure start dropping and we , the nurses, doctors ( if they are there) just stand there, looking at the patient.
I fell like I have to do something,but I do not know what. I think they are really suffering at that time. . I am not Buddhist yet, I am interested and want to be a Buddhist, I watched a lot of Tsem Rinpoche's teaching via you tube, would you please kindly guide me what is the best thing I can do for this patient.
thanks
Ratna Ta
Dear Ratna,you have a kind heart. Having to witness patients going through the dying process on regular basis must be really trying. If all other medical treatments have been exhausted, as Buddhists we make a prayer and dedication that the person will have peace in their last moments and have a good rebirth.
We all wish to help others but if we are honest we also realize we can’t do much if we ourselves are not free from suffering.This does not mean we don’t help. We do whatever we can without getting depressed or disappointed even if its only a little.