POLST Form 2017-2026

What is the POLST Form

The POLST form, or Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment form, is a medical document designed to communicate a patient's preferences regarding their healthcare in emergency situations. It is particularly relevant for individuals with serious illnesses or those nearing the end of life. The form ensures that a patient's wishes regarding treatments, such as resuscitation and life support, are respected by healthcare providers. In Minnesota, this form is recognized as a legally binding document that guides medical decisions when the patient is unable to communicate their preferences.

How to use the POLST Form

Using the POLST form involves several key steps to ensure that it accurately reflects the patient's wishes. First, a patient should discuss their healthcare preferences with their physician, who can provide guidance on the implications of various treatment options. Once the form is completed, it should be signed by both the patient and the physician. It is crucial to keep the POLST form in a readily accessible location, such as with other important medical documents or on the refrigerator, to ensure it can be easily located in an emergency. Healthcare providers are required to follow the instructions outlined in the form, making it an essential tool for patient advocacy.

Steps to complete the POLST Form

Completing the POLST form involves a clear process that ensures all necessary information is accurately documented. Begin by discussing treatment options with a healthcare provider to understand the implications of each choice. Next, fill out the form, which includes sections for resuscitation preferences, medical interventions, and comfort measures. After completing the form, both the patient and the physician must sign it to validate the document. Finally, distribute copies of the signed POLST form to relevant healthcare providers and keep the original in an accessible location.

Legal use of the POLST Form

The POLST form is legally recognized in Minnesota, which means that healthcare providers are obligated to honor the directives outlined in the form. For the POLST to be legally binding, it must be signed by both the patient and their physician. It is essential to ensure that the form is completed in accordance with Minnesota laws and regulations. This legal recognition provides peace of mind for patients and their families, knowing that their healthcare preferences will be respected even when they are unable to communicate.

Key elements of the POLST Form

The POLST form includes several critical elements that guide medical decision-making. These elements are designed to capture the patient's preferences comprehensively. Key sections of the form include:

• Resuscitation preferences: Indicates whether the patient wishes to receive CPR or not.
• Medical interventions: Details the level of medical treatment the patient desires, ranging from full treatment to comfort measures only.
• Patient information: Includes the patient's name, date of birth, and other identifying details.
• Physician's orders: Provides instructions from the physician based on the patient's preferences.

How to obtain the POLST Form

Obtaining the POLST form in Minnesota is straightforward. Patients can request the form from their healthcare provider, who can provide guidance on completing it. Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Health offers printable versions of the POLST form online. It is important to ensure that the most current version of the form is used, as updates may occur over time. Once obtained, the form should be discussed with a physician to ensure that it accurately reflects the patient's wishes.