Types of Advance Directives

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 149 views

**Understanding Advance Directives: A Guide to Making Informed Decisions**

What is an Advance Directive?

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate. It is a crucial tool for individuals who want to ensure that their wishes are respected and carried out in the event of a medical emergency or terminal illness.

Types of Advance Directives

There are several types of advance directives, including:

Living Will: A living will is a document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate. It can include instructions for life-sustaining treatments, such as CPR or a ventilator, as well as preferences for pain management and end-of-life care.
Health Care Proxy: A health care proxy is a document that appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on behalf of the person who created the document. This individual is responsible for carrying out the person's wishes as outlined in the advance directive.
Medical Power of Attorney: A medical power of attorney is a document that grants a trusted individual the authority to make medical decisions on behalf of the person who created the document. This individual is responsible for carrying out the person's wishes as outlined in the advance directive.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR order is a medical order that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR or other life-sustaining treatments in the event of a cardiac arrest.

Q&A: Advance Directives

Q: What is the difference between a living will and a health care proxy?

A: A living will is a document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate. A health care proxy, on the other hand, is a document that appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on behalf of the person who created the document.

Q: Can I change my advance directive after it has been created?

A: Yes, you can change your advance directive at any time. However, it is essential to update your advance directive if you move to a new state or if your personal circumstances change.

Q: Who should I appoint as my health care proxy?

A: You should appoint a trusted individual who is aware of your medical preferences and values. This individual should be someone who is able to make informed decisions on your behalf and carry out your wishes as outlined in the advance directive.

Q: What happens if I don't have an advance directive?

A: If you don't have an advance directive, your healthcare providers will make decisions on your behalf based on their professional judgment and the laws of your state. This can lead to conflicts and uncertainty, which can be stressful for both you and your loved ones.

Q: Can I include financial decisions in my advance directive?

A: No, advance directives are limited to medical decisions. If you want to include financial decisions, you should create a separate document, such as a power of attorney or a will.

Q: How do I create an advance directive?

A: You can create an advance directive by consulting with an attorney or by using a template provided by your state or a reputable organization. It is essential to have your advance directive notarized and to keep it in a safe and accessible place.

Conclusion

Advance directives are an essential tool for individuals who want to ensure that their wishes are respected and carried out in the event of a medical emergency or terminal illness. By understanding the different types of advance directives and creating a document that outlines your preferences, you can take control of your medical care and make informed decisions about your health.

Additional Resources

National Institute on Aging: Advance Directives
American Bar Association: Advance Directives
American Medical Association: Advance Directives

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of an advance directive? A: The purpose of an advance directive is to ensure that your wishes are respected and carried out in the event of a medical emergency or terminal illness.
Q: Can I include spiritual or religious preferences in my advance directive? A: Yes, you can include spiritual or religious preferences in your advance directive.
Q: Can I change my advance directive after it has been created? A: Yes, you can change your advance directive at any time.
Q: Who should I appoint as my health care proxy? A: You should appoint a trusted individual who is aware of your medical preferences and values.

Key Terms

Advance Directive: A legal document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate.
Living Will: A document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate.
Health Care Proxy: A document that appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on behalf of the person who created the document.
Medical Power of Attorney: A document that grants a trusted individual the authority to make medical decisions on behalf of the person who created the document.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A medical order that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR or other life-sustaining treatments in the event of a cardiac arrest.