My husband has cirrhosis of the liver. I can't get doctor's to tell me what's going on. He started sleeping 16-18 hrs/day. Is he close to death?

He was diagnosed a year ago ... I have a POA but liver specialists (in Canada) aggressively treat the liver until the last minute unwilling to discuss the end until "all options" have been used up ... It's a mind set ... Our healthcare system, although "free" doesn't give a second opinion option. All they say is that his heart, lungs and kidneys are good. It's his mind! I have to try and get him to the lab for blood tests but that's really hard with him sleeping so much. I am his primary caregiver and I just need to know when to call his kids ... Out of country. I'm going to be talking to an RN next week but I'm a bit worried right now.

Hepatic encephalopathy? I second talking to his doctor to about his symptoms and what his options are, and perhaps trying to get a second opinion should you not he able to reach his primary doc, maybe even call the nurse line at the local hospital. I know with cirrhosis they sometimes use lactulose to help keep ammonia levels in the brain from building up. It could be what's happening here (ammonia build up) causing the hallucinations and drowsiness. It also depends on what other symptoms he is exhibiting as to whether he is in the end stage of the cirrhosis or just dehydrated and/or fluid build up, and whether or not the HE is correctable at this point.

HE? Hepatitis?

So there is not a HIPPA or POA in place signed by hubby?

You are out of luck. A doctor's responsibility is to his patient and to keep information private is that is patient's wish.

Does he look jaundice? Tremors? Belly protruding? Maybe search online for symptoms of end of life with cirrhosis.

You need to call the doctor and tell him you need to know what is going on. He has a responsibility to his patient. I would ask about getting Hospice. An RN will come out to evaluate him. She will tell you if he will be excepted. Someone will have to be with him 24/7. You will get an aide, not sure how often but she/he will bathe him. Depends will be provided and I think medication. He will be kept comfortable. Hospice nurse will come every few days to check vitals and available by phone 24/7.