Question

1. Discuss ONE SPECIFIC type of advance directives. Who may initiate it, who does it serve, what is the purpose of having it, how does it serve the patient or client, what are the responsibilities of the nurse?

Answer 1

Advanced directives are legal records that consist of wishes related to medical treatment. This can be used during serious illness when the person not in a state of taking a final decision. One of the types of advanced directives is Medical power of attorney.

Medical power of attorney authorizes someone (agent, surrogate, or attorney) to make a decision on behalf of the concerned person. The agent can make a decision only in the case of the concerned person not to make medical decisions. The agent can be anyone who is trusted by yourself and fulfill your wishes. But the agent should not be a medical professional. Medical power of attorney may be included with living will or it will be a separate document. These documents should be made legal as per the state's requirements.

The nurse has to make a decision based on advanced directives. The nurse should include this in the plan of care. The nurse should assess the advanced directive before taking end of life decisions. The nurse should have sound knowledge regarding advanced directives and discuss with team for the well being of patient.