Medical professionals and patients in Oregon have been using the POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form to convey the patient's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments. However, the form can be complex and confusing, especially for those who are not familiar with medical terminology. In this article, we will break down the POLST form in Oregon and provide five ways to understand its components.
Understanding the POLST form is crucial for patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure that the patient's wishes are respected and followed. The POLST form is a medical order that outlines the patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), mechanical ventilation, and artificial nutrition.
What is the POLST Form?
The POLST form is a medical order that is signed by a physician or other qualified healthcare provider. It outlines the patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatments and is used by emergency medical personnel, hospitals, and other healthcare providers to guide treatment decisions.
The POLST form is not a substitute for advance directives, such as a living will or durable power of attorney for healthcare. Instead, it is a complementary document that provides specific medical orders that can be followed by healthcare providers.
Section A: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
The first section of the POLST form deals with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Patients can choose to receive CPR if their heart stops or they stop breathing, or they can choose not to receive CPR.
Understanding the implications of CPR is crucial. While CPR can be lifesaving, it may also result in significant injury or disability. Patients should carefully consider their wishes regarding CPR and discuss them with their healthcare provider.
Section B: Medical Interventions
Section B of the POLST form deals with medical interventions, such as mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition, and hospitalization.
Patients can choose to receive these interventions, or they can choose to limit or forgo them. For example, a patient may choose to receive mechanical ventilation but not artificial nutrition.
Section C: Antibiotics
Section C of the POLST form deals with the use of antibiotics. Patients can choose to receive antibiotics for life-threatening infections, or they can choose not to receive them.
Understanding the implications of antibiotics is crucial. While antibiotics can be lifesaving, they may also have significant side effects. Patients should carefully consider their wishes regarding antibiotics and discuss them with their healthcare provider.
5 Ways to Understand the POLST Form
Understanding the POLST form can be challenging, but there are several ways to break it down. Here are five ways to understand the POLST form:
- Talk to your healthcare provider: Your healthcare provider can help you understand the POLST form and answer any questions you may have. They can also provide guidance on how to complete the form.
- Use online resources: There are several online resources available that can help you understand the POLST form. These resources include videos, FAQs, and sample forms.
- Complete a sample form: Completing a sample POLST form can help you understand the different sections and how to complete them.
- Discuss with family and friends: Discussing the POLST form with family and friends can help you understand their wishes and values.
- Seek guidance from a social worker: Social workers can provide guidance on how to complete the POLST form and answer any questions you may have.
In conclusion, understanding the POLST form is crucial for patients, families, and healthcare providers. By using the five ways outlined above, you can break down the form and understand its components. Remember to talk to your healthcare provider, use online resources, complete a sample form, discuss with family and friends, and seek guidance from a social worker.
We encourage you to comment below with any questions or concerns you may have about the POLST form. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about the POLST form.
What is the POLST form?
+The POLST form is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), mechanical ventilation, and artificial nutrition.
Who can complete the POLST form?
+The POLST form can be completed by a patient, or by a healthcare provider on behalf of the patient.
What is the difference between the POLST form and advance directives?
+The POLST form is a medical order that outlines specific treatment preferences, while advance directives, such as a living will or durable power of attorney for healthcare, provide more general guidance on treatment decisions.