Desert Cross Lutheran Church

Advanced Health Care Directives  It is often difficult for individuals to think about the type of care and treatment they want in the event they are incapable of making their own health care decisions. However, completing an Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD) is important for all individuals over 18 years of age as they may unexpectedly be in a position where they cannot speak for themselves, such as an accident or severe illness. An AHCD allows individuals to appoint a person who has power of attorney to make care and treatment decisions on their behalf, and give instructions about their health care wishes. What this means is that you are able to specify in writing your basic philosophy about health care decisions and select someone to be your voice in the event that you are unable to make your wishes known. When beginning this process, it is very important to discuss your beliefs and desires with your family members, especially the person you select as medical power of attorney. I realize this may not be the kind of thing you discuss during family dinner time, but the more open these discussions are, the more families become aware of individual viewpoints. The Secretary of State's Advance Directive registry  began on March 1, 2005. "Arizonans will now have a secure location to keep their vital records for health care treatment if they are too injured or sick to speak for themselves," said then Secretary Brewer. "I am proud be a part of this program that will help families and friends know the requests of their loved ones. Using this registry should give piece of mind to program participants," stated Secretary Brewer. "They are making their requests known and the information will now be readily accessible in a time of crisis." To participate in the registry, Arizonans call the Secretary of State’s office at 602-542-4285 or visit their Web site at www.azsos.gov. The steps are listed and seem to be easy to follow. There is no fee to use the registry and the information submitted is confidential and protected. The office will notify the sender that the directive has been added to the registry, ask for verification of the information and be sent a password to access the registry. Have those conversations with your close family members. When beliefs have been discussed openly, there is less chance for disagreements in a time of crisis. As always, feel free to contact me here at church if you have questions or concerns. In Christ’s Love, Denise Viker Parish Nurse Disaster Preparedness  Disaster Preparedness Checklist Do you have emergency numbers posted by the phone? Do you have an emergency meeting place outside your home?  If family members are separated while evacuating your home, where do you meet? Do you have an out of state and a local relative or friend for family members to call if separated during a disaster? Do you have enough water for each family member and pet for at least 3 days?  You should have one gallon of water per person per day, stored in factory sealed containers.  Rotate your supply of water regularly and use before the expiration date.  Do you have a supply of food which requires no refrigeration or cooking?  Try to include items which have vitamins, minerals and protein.  Fortified cereals are a good source of this.  Rotate your supply of food to keep it fresh.  Be sure you have a manual can opener as well.  Do you have a water-free method for washing your hands?  Wipes such as baby wipes are the best for this, followed by alcohol hand sanitizers.  Do you have a battery operated radio and extra fresh batteries?  Do you have a flashlight, batteries, candles, matches, etc. to provide a source of light? Do you have a first aid kit to treat minor injuries?  Are your routine medications readily available? Are your important documents stored in a waterproof and fireproof container? Do you have a plan for your pets? This checklist is a good place to start.  Think about other items which may be important to your family.  For further information on disaster preparedness, check out the Red Cross website at www.redcross.org.