PA Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment POLST 2018-2026

What is the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

The PA Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments. It is designed for individuals with serious illnesses or those who are nearing the end of life. The POLST form serves as a guide for healthcare providers to ensure that a patient’s wishes are respected in critical situations. This form is recognized across Pennsylvania and is intended to facilitate conversations between patients and healthcare providers about treatment options.

How to use the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

Using the PA POLST form involves several key steps to ensure that the patient’s preferences are accurately documented and understood. Initially, a discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to clarify treatment options and the implications of those choices. Once the form is completed, it should be signed by both the patient and the physician or authorized healthcare provider. The completed POLST should be kept in an easily accessible location, such as with the patient's medical records or on the refrigerator, to ensure it is available during emergencies.

Steps to complete the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

Completing the PA POLST form involves a series of straightforward steps:

• Engage in a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your health status and treatment preferences.
• Fill out the POLST form, indicating your choices regarding resuscitation, medical interventions, and other treatment preferences.
• Ensure the form is signed by both you and your healthcare provider to validate the orders.
• Distribute copies of the signed POLST form to relevant parties, including family members and healthcare facilities.

Legal use of the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

The PA POLST form is legally recognized in Pennsylvania, which means it must be honored by healthcare providers. It is crucial that the form is completed accurately and signed by a physician to ensure its legal standing. The POLST serves as a medical order rather than just an advance directive, which gives it a higher level of authority in medical settings. Understanding the legal implications of the POLST can help ensure that a patient’s wishes are respected during critical healthcare decisions.

Key elements of the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

The PA POLST form includes several key elements that outline a patient’s treatment preferences. These elements typically cover:

• Resuscitation preferences, including whether to attempt CPR.
• Preferences for medical interventions, such as intubation or intravenous fluids.
• Instructions regarding comfort measures and palliative care.
• Patient and physician signatures to validate the orders.

How to obtain the PA Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment POLST

The PA POLST form can be obtained through various channels. Healthcare providers often have copies available in their offices. Additionally, the form can be downloaded from official health department websites or printed directly from reputable sources. It is important to ensure that the version used is the most current and compliant with Pennsylvania regulations. Once obtained, it should be filled out in consultation with a healthcare provider to ensure that it accurately reflects the patient’s wishes.