Q
: John has recently learned about advance directives in a healthcare legal
aspects course he has taken. The information he has obtained, along with his
knowledge of the Terri Schiavo case (2005) has convinced him of the benefits
of executing an advance directive if he were to become incompetent. John is
aware that his grandparents may not be informed about the purpose and
function of advance directives, which he now feels are important for them to
consider.
What should John consider in deciding what type of advance directive is best for
him?
A
:
When considering an advance directive it's important to take into
consideration a number of different things. The most important decision
when it comes to advance directives is naming someone who will hold the
power of attorney and make important decisions for John and his estate in
the event that John becomes incapable of making such decisions. The
importance of this one decision should not be understated, John will need to
choose someone who he trusts, who shares common values, and who is
capable enough to execute the duties of his office. Aside from that, there are
a number of different forms and orders that may adhere to John's wishes,
such as a do not resuscitate (DNR) order should he ever fall into critical
condition and requires CPR, it can also be called an allow natural death
(AND). Other orders such as do not intubate (DNI) or do not hospitalize
(DNH), also give orders to hospital or other such medical staff what they are
allowed and not allowed to do.
References:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.).
Advance Care
Planning: Advance Directives for Health Care
. National Institute on Aging.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning-advance-directives-
health-care
Brodnik, M. S., Rinehart-Thompson, L. A., & Reynolds, R. B.
(2023).
Fundamentals of law for Health Informatics and Information
Management
. AHIMA Press.
