End of life discussions are a difficult but necessary response to address the needs of the families and wishes of patients. Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) addresses these, as well as provides clear guidance for providers regarding the type and level of care the patient desires.

POLST

1. Provides a way to help ensure that a patient’s end-of-life treatment wishes are respected
2. Can be used either to clarify a choice for all medically-indicated treatments, including resuscitation, or to limit medical interventions
3. Translates patient goals and preferences into medical orders signed by a physician
4. Accompanies the patient across care settings
5. Are based on communications between the patient or surrogate and a healthcare professional
6. Assists healthcare professionals and caregivers in discussing and developing treatment plans that reflect patient wishes
7. Helps seriously ill or terminal patients and those with advanced frailty prepare for end-of-life
8. Complements advance directives, which are recommended

Learn more about POLST at www.polst.org. Download 10 Facts Physicians Need to Know About POLST.

atom Alliance works closely with providers help reduce hospital readmissions and improve quality of care. Learn more at www.atomalliance.org.