Step-by-Step Instructions to Download and Fill Out Your POLST Form Correctly
The POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form is a vital document that ensures your medical treatment preferences are respected during emergencies. Downloading and completing this form accurately is crucial for your healthcare providers to understand your wishes. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to help you download and fill out your POLST form correctly.
What Is a POLST Form and Why Is It Important?
A POLST form is a medical order signed by a healthcare professional that outlines your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments such as resuscitation, intubation, and use of antibiotics. Unlike advance directives, which are legal documents expressing general wishes, the POLST translates those wishes into actionable medical orders. It is especially important for individuals with serious illnesses or frailty, ensuring their treatment aligns with their values across different care settings.
How to Find and Download Your State’s POLST Form
To download the correct POLST form, start by visiting official state health department websites or authorized medical organizations that provide the latest version of the form specific to your state. These websites often offer PDF versions available for free download. Ensure you select the most current version since forms can vary between states in format and required information.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the POLST Form
Begin by carefully reading all instructions on the form before filling it out. You will need input from both yourself and your healthcare provider. Sections generally include: patient information; decisions about resuscitation (CPR); level of medical intervention desired; antibiotic use preferences; artificially administered nutrition options; signature lines for both patient or surrogate decision-maker and licensed healthcare professional; date fields. Be honest about your care preferences and ask questions if any section seems unclear.
Tips for Ensuring Your Completed POLST Form Is Valid
For a valid POLST form, it must be signed by a licensed healthcare professional such as a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who has discussed treatment options with you thoroughly. Additionally, some states require witness signatures or notarization — verify these requirements beforehand. Keep copies of the signed document accessible at home, share them with family members and caregivers, and provide copies to all relevant health facilities where you receive care.
Updating Your POLST Form When Necessary
Your medical condition or personal wishes may change over time. It’s important to review your completed POLST regularly—especially after significant health changes—and update it accordingly using an updated version of the form from official sources. Always destroy outdated forms once new ones are completed to avoid confusion among healthcare providers.
Downloading and filling out your POLST form correctly empowers you to take control over critical healthcare decisions in emergencies. By following these step-by-step instructions carefully, you ensure that your treatment choices are clearly documented and respected when it matters most.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
