Patient care decisions can be difficult. Following are just two challenging situations that occur in hospitals every day.
- Two family members do not agree on putting a “Do Not Resuscitate” order in place for their loved one.
- A nurse is unsure of how to support an unconscious patient with no family or representation and who requires a prompt medical decision.
How do such issues get resolved?
Pipeline Health has two committees to assist with difficult patient care decisions. The Clinical Ethics Committee and the Multidisciplinary Committee are in place at each hospital as resources for hospital employees, physicians, patients and family members.
Now, a new form for requesting consultation is available to help direct which issues go to which committee for prompt attention.
The Clinical Ethics Committee guides discussion when family members or the care team disagree on treatment decisions, including end-of-life decisions.
The Multidisciplinary Committee makes recommendations on non-emergent care decisions for unrepresented patients who lack capacity. For example, this committee could make a recommendation on whether or not a patient should have a tracheostomy to allow for improved breathing.
The new Multidisciplinary Team / Bioethics (CEC) Consultation Request Form
helps the submitter ensure the appropriate team is consulted. The form can be requested from either the medical staff office or the social work team. The form contains instruction for submittal to the appropriate committee for prompt discussion.
Most submissions receive a response within 24 hours.
“Across our hospitals, we’ve seen the need for consultations on sensitive issues, but the staff member or family member may not know where to direct their concern for guidance,” explained Chelsey Thackston, manager of Clinical Quality Programs and Data Analytics.
According to Pipeline’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Vincent Green, medical staff and staff in Quality and Risk Management, as well as nurses and case managers may refer issues to the appropriate committees for discussion.
“Importantly, family members can bring issues forward, too,” Dr. Green said. “The two committees allow for the concerned parties to come to the table for productive discussion.
The new form helps generate patient care recommendations more efficiently, which is in the best interest of the patient and those submitting consultation requests.”
1.29.2025