Advance Directives: Terminology, Elements, and the Role of the Clinician
Presented by Cathleen Armato
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Video Runtime: 50 Minutes
Written advance directives are an opportunity for an individual to communicate their wishes and preferences for care at the end-of-life. Without these documents, it may be left to family or friends to make decisions that they “think” the person would have wanted. This can be challenging for many reasons, not the least of which can be conflicting opinions among loved ones. This course takes a deeper look at the complex terminology, long history, and forced evolution of advance directives. Significant court cases will be reviewed for their impact on decision-making at the end-of-life. Information will be provided regarding how to choose a health care surrogate, what to include in a living will, and what to do when directives are completed.
Meet your instructor
Cathleen Armato
Cathleen Armato is an experienced executive with 22 years in the home care and hospice industry. She has served in various roles during that time, including VP of operations and chief compliance officer for a nationwide healthcare provider. In 2012, Cat became a consultant. Since that time, she has assisted multiple…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Definitions
Terminology in advance care planning and advance directives can be complex and often confusing. Terms that sound alike may have different meanings and there may be several terms that mean the same thing. This course reviews common terms to help the health care provider explain these to patients and their families.
2. The History of Advance Directives
It has taken a long time to get to where we are today. This chapter will review the history and evolution of advance directives and advance care planning. Additionally, significant court cases that have impacted advance care planning will be reviewed.
3. Assisting Patients and Families With Advance Care Planning
From “beginning the conversation” to “what to do with completed documents,” this chapter reviews the important process of assisting patients with their advance care planning. Qualifications for a health care proxy will be reviewed and the options available for inclusion in living wills will be discussed.