Medical Research- Ventilators

Question 1

Why do people need a ventilator?

Answer 1

Vital organ failure due to trauma, infection, cancer, heart attack, chronic disease, lung failure.

Question 2

How does it work?

Answer 2

One end of the windpipe through the nose or mouth and the other attaches to an electric pump. It makes sure people receive enough oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide.

Question 3

Ethical issues with ventilators

Answer 3

Some see it as prolonging someone’s life
Expensive treatment
Not necessarily going to help, they may have to have it turned off
Not a cure
Can cause breathing problems afterwards if used for non-permanent purpose

Question 4

Case studies

Answer 4

Cerys Edwards- brain damaged in a car accident and kept alive for nine years before the ventilator was turned off

Question 5

Christian perspective

Answer 5

Issue with god giving and taking life
Wrong to keep people from being with god at their time
Not loving to keep people alive for the sake of it when there is no quality of life
But-
Loving for those who have it short term as it can help them