Both of my parents have advance medical directives and medical power of attorney. On two different occasions I have had "the talk" with my mom's physician. I explained her wishes and that she (and my dad and I) did not want any heroics. In both cases, the doctors were grateful that the parameters were clearly defined. Same thing last summer when DW was in a coma and in ICU.
One critical things to have a copy of the directives and POA. Hospitals can't/wont take your word. I keep copies of advance medical directives, POA and financial POA in pdf format on my cell phone. I can email it to the hospital folks while standing there. Also great because I always have the phone with me.
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