Healthcare decisions can be some of the most difficult and personal choices we make. In New Jersey, residents have the option to complete a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form to ensure their wishes are respected. However, many people are unsure about what a POLST form is, how it works, and what benefits it provides. In this article, we will explore five essential things to know about POLST forms in New Jersey.
What is a POLST Form?
Who Should Complete a POLST Form?
POLST forms are not just for the elderly or those with terminal illnesses. Anyone who wants to ensure their healthcare wishes are respected should consider completing a POLST form. This includes individuals with chronic illnesses, those who have experienced a serious medical condition, and even healthy individuals who want to plan ahead. By completing a POLST form, individuals can take control of their healthcare decisions and ensure their wishes are respected, even in emergency situations.How Does a POLST Form Work?
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Mechanical ventilation
- Artificial nutrition and hydration
- Dialysis
- Other life-sustaining treatments
The patient indicates whether they want to receive each treatment, and the healthcare provider signs the form, making it a medical order. The POLST form is then placed in the patient's medical record and is recognized by all healthcare providers in New Jersey.
Benefits of a POLST Form
Completing a POLST form provides several benefits, including:- Ensures patient autonomy: A POLST form allows patients to take control of their healthcare decisions and ensure their wishes are respected.
- Reduces uncertainty: A POLST form provides clear guidance for healthcare providers, reducing uncertainty and confusion in emergency situations.
- Improves patient-provider communication: Completing a POLST form encourages patients to discuss their wishes with their healthcare provider, improving communication and understanding.
How to Complete a POLST Form in NJ
- Discuss their wishes with their healthcare provider.
- Complete the POLST form, indicating their preferences for each medical treatment.
- Sign the form, making it a medical order.
- Place the form in their medical record.
- Provide a copy of the form to their healthcare provider and family members.
FAQs About POLST Forms in NJ
Here are some frequently asked questions about POLST forms in New Jersey:Q: Is a POLST form the same as a living will? A: No, a POLST form is a medical order that outlines specific treatment preferences, while a living will is a legal document that outlines general healthcare wishes.
Q: Can I change my POLST form? A: Yes, patients can change their POLST form at any time by completing a new form and signing it.
Q: Is a POLST form recognized by all healthcare providers in NJ? A: Yes, POLST forms are recognized by all healthcare providers in New Jersey, including hospitals, nursing homes, and emergency medical services.
What is the purpose of a POLST form?
+The purpose of a POLST form is to ensure that a patient's healthcare wishes are respected, even in emergency situations.
Who can complete a POLST form?
+Anyone who wants to ensure their healthcare wishes are respected can complete a POLST form, including individuals with chronic illnesses, those who have experienced a serious medical condition, and even healthy individuals who want to plan ahead.
How do I complete a POLST form?
+To complete a POLST form, patients should discuss their wishes with their healthcare provider, complete the form, sign it, and place it in their medical record.
We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of POLST forms in New Jersey. By completing a POLST form, individuals can take control of their healthcare decisions and ensure their wishes are respected, even in emergency situations. If you have any questions or concerns about POLST forms, we encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional.