Understanding Polst Forms In Minnesota: A Guide

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Minnesota, like many other states in the US, has implemented a medical form known as the POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form. This document has become an essential part of end-of-life care, allowing patients to express their preferences for medical treatment in emergency situations. However, understanding the POLST form and its implications can be daunting, especially for those who are not familiar with medical terminology or end-of-life care.

In this article, we will delve into the world of POLST forms in Minnesota, explaining what they are, how they work, and the benefits they offer. We will also explore the key differences between POLST forms and other advance directives, such as living wills and healthcare proxies. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of POLST forms in Minnesota and be better equipped to make informed decisions about your own end-of-life care.

What is a POLST Form?

A POLST form is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatment in emergency situations. It is a legally binding document that is signed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant and is used by healthcare providers to guide medical decision-making. The POLST form is not an advance directive, but rather a medical order that is used in conjunction with advance directives.

How Does a POLST Form Work?

A POLST form is typically completed by a patient and their healthcare provider during a medical appointment or hospital stay. The form asks patients to indicate their preferences for the following life-sustaining treatments:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Mechanical ventilation
• Artificial nutrition and hydration
• Medical interventions, such as antibiotics or blood transfusions

Patients can choose to accept or decline each of these treatments, and their preferences are documented on the POLST form. The form is then signed by the patient's healthcare provider and becomes a part of the patient's medical record.

Benefits of POLST Forms in Minnesota

POLST forms offer several benefits to patients and their loved ones in Minnesota. Some of the key benefits include:

• Improved communication: POLST forms facilitate open and honest communication between patients, their healthcare providers, and their loved ones about end-of-life care.
• Increased autonomy: POLST forms allow patients to express their preferences for life-sustaining treatment, ensuring that their wishes are respected in emergency situations.
• Reduced uncertainty: POLST forms provide clear guidance for healthcare providers, reducing uncertainty and stress during emergency situations.
• Better outcomes: By documenting patient preferences, POLST forms can help ensure that patients receive care that is aligned with their values and goals.

Key Differences Between POLST Forms and Other Advance Directives

While POLST forms are often used in conjunction with other advance directives, such as living wills and healthcare proxies, they serve distinct purposes. Here are some key differences:

• Living wills: Living wills are documents that outline a patient's preferences for medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate. Unlike POLST forms, living wills are not medical orders and do not require a physician's signature.
• Healthcare proxies: Healthcare proxies are documents that appoint a person to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient if they become unable to communicate. Unlike POLST forms, healthcare proxies do not outline specific treatment preferences.

How to Complete a POLST Form in Minnesota

Completing a POLST form in Minnesota is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:

1. Discuss your preferences: Talk to your healthcare provider about your preferences for life-sustaining treatment.
2. Review the form: Review the POLST form with your healthcare provider to ensure that it accurately reflects your preferences.
3. Sign the form: Sign the POLST form in the presence of your healthcare provider.
4. Update the form: Review and update your POLST form periodically to ensure that it remains accurate and reflects any changes in your preferences.

Common Questions About POLST Forms in Minnesota

Here are some common questions about POLST forms in Minnesota:

• Who can complete a POLST form?: Patients, their healthcare providers, and their loved ones can all be involved in completing a POLST form.
• How long is a POLST form valid?: A POLST form is valid until it is revoked or updated by the patient.
• Can I change my mind?: Yes, you can change your mind and update your POLST form at any time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, POLST forms are an essential part of end-of-life care in Minnesota, allowing patients to express their preferences for life-sustaining treatment in emergency situations. By understanding how POLST forms work and the benefits they offer, patients and their loved ones can make informed decisions about end-of-life care. If you have questions or concerns about POLST forms in Minnesota, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a qualified healthcare professional.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with POLST forms in the comments below. Have you or a loved one completed a POLST form? What was your experience like? Share your story and help others understand the importance of POLST forms in end-of-life care.