When will the doctors know if my loved one
will wake up?
Recovery usually depends on the type of
injury your loved one has had and how much
damage was done. To determine the degree
of damage, doctors first try to reduce brain
swelling and pressure.
The doctor has told us our loved one has taken a
turn for the worse and probably will not recover.
We haven’t noticed any changes at all. How can
the doctor predict this?
There are certain signs that point to irreversible
damage of the brain that eventually leads to
death. These signs include the loss of basic
reflexes like coughing, gagging or blinking,
the presence of uncontrollable pressure in
the brain, or the inability to breathe without
a respirator. The brain cells that control these
automatic functions have died and they cannot
be restored.
Why can’t I see my loved one right now?
The medical team is doing everything possible
to save your loved one’s life. If your presence
interferes with the work of the medical team
or the safety and dignity of your loved one
or of other patients, you may be asked to wait
outside the unit for a short while.
What can I do to help?
During this time of great emotional and physical
stress, you’ll need all your strength. Eat and
rest when you can. Call those you want near
you for support. Remember that the hospital
has a chaplain or social worker on call.
While you’re waiting, write down any questions
you want to ask about the care your loved one
is receiving.
The doctor explained that my loved one suffered
a severe brain injury. What does this mean?
The most severe complications of head injuries
are increased pressure, swelling, bleeding inside
the head, or a loss of blood flow and oxygen to
the brain. Any of these conditions can cause
permanent damage or death of the brain.
