Under the communication topic is the idea of advanced directives. The advance directive idea has grown from basic forms that can be found in the state statutes to very refined documents such as Five Wishes or POLST or MOLST. But to start this topic we can access the Florida State statutes and see what the State of Florida has to offer as a advance directive. Here is the direct link to the Florida State Statute 765.101 https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/by-state/florida/
Scroll down to “Download Florida Advance Directive” This will give you an idea about the contents of the standard State form using the Florida one as an example. If you list the main parts it will give you an idea about the types of choices these forms allow for which are not exactly detailed or extensive in content. Now if you were to open a Five Wishes form: https://www.fivewishes.org/five-wishes-sample.pdf
Links to an external site. and compare to the earlier State form it becomes obvious the difference.
As a variation on the same theme there is also the POLST form which also gives several choices as a type of advance directive form. This will be our discussion for the communication module.
Assignment: Compare the two methods of Advanced Directives, that is the State of Florida form with either the Five Wishes or the POLST form and describe the following:
a) What are the differences between the forms?
b) Why do you think that there are differences between the forms?
c) What is accomplished by the newer generation of advanced directive (eg. Five Wishes or POLST)?
d) Which form would you rather have as a patient? and why?
Your answer should be at least 300 words and have a reference to it. You should comply with APA 7th ed guidelines and answer all of the questions clearly and completely.
Title: Comparing Advanced Directives: Florida State Form vs. Five Wishes and POLST
Introduction
Advanced directives are legal documents that allow individuals to express their healthcare preferences in advance, ensuring that their wishes are respected in the event they become unable to communicate or make decisions. Over time, the concept of advanced directives has evolved from basic forms found in state statutes to more refined documents like Five Wishes or POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment). In this essay, we will compare the differences between the State of Florida’s standard advance directive form and the Five Wishes and POLST forms. We will also explore the reasons for these differences, the achievements of the newer generation of advanced directives, and which form might be preferred by a patient.
Differences Between the Forms
a) The differences between the State of Florida’s standard advance directive form and the Five Wishes and POLST forms are substantial.
The Florida State form primarily focuses on appointing a healthcare surrogate and providing general guidance on treatment preferences. It tends to be legally oriented and less personal. In contrast, the Five Wishes document is more comprehensive and user-friendly. It covers not only medical treatment preferences but also personal, emotional, and spiritual matters. It allows individuals to express their wishes regarding comfort, dignity, and the people they want involved in their care. POLST, on the other hand, is a medical order that addresses specific medical interventions, like CPR and feeding tubes, in emergencies, and is generally used for individuals with serious illnesses or advanced frailty.
Reasons for Differences
b) The differences between these forms can be attributed to various factors:
- Purpose and Scope: The State of Florida form primarily serves a legal purpose, aiming to ensure that patients’ rights are protected according to state statutes. In contrast, Five Wishes and POLST are designed to enhance patient-centered care and communication, taking into account a broader range of personal and emotional considerations.
- Patient-Centered Approach: Five Wishes and POLST prioritize patient values and preferences, aiming to facilitate open conversations between patients, their families, and healthcare providers. They recognize that medical decisions are not only about treatment options but also about quality of life and emotional well-being.
Accomplishments of Newer Generation Advanced Directives
c) The newer generation of advanced directives, like Five Wishes and POLST, have achieved several important goals:
- Improved Communication: These documents facilitate clearer and more meaningful conversations between patients, their families, and healthcare providers, ensuring that everyone understands the patient’s wishes and values.
- Holistic Care: They consider not only medical treatment but also emotional and spiritual aspects of care, promoting a more comprehensive approach to healthcare decision-making.
Preference as a Patient
d) As a patient, the preference between these forms may vary depending on individual values and circumstances. However, many patients may prefer the Five Wishes or POLST forms due to their patient-centered approach, comprehensive nature, and the opportunity they provide to express a wider range of preferences beyond just medical treatment. These forms empower patients to have a more significant say in their care and promote a sense of dignity and comfort during challenging times.
In conclusion, the differences between the State of Florida’s standard advance directive form and newer forms like Five Wishes and POLST reflect the evolution of advanced directives towards a more patient-centered, holistic, and communicative approach. The newer generation of advanced directives has achieved the goals of improving communication and ensuring that patients’ preferences and values are at the forefront of healthcare decision-making. The preference for a particular form may vary among patients, but many individuals may find the comprehensive and personal nature of Five Wishes or POLST more appealing and aligned with their desires for end-of-life care.