CA POLST Form

What is the CA POLST Form

The California Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (CA POLST) Form is a medical order that reflects a patient's preferences regarding end-of-life care. It is designed for individuals with serious illnesses or those who are nearing the end of life. The form is intended to ensure that patients receive the medical treatment they desire, whether that means aggressive life-saving measures or comfort-focused care. The CA POLST Form is recognized by healthcare providers across California and serves as a legal document that guides medical decisions in emergency situations.

How to use the CA POLST Form

The CA POLST Form should be completed by patients in consultation with their healthcare providers. Once filled out, the form should be kept in an easily accessible location, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical file. Healthcare providers, including emergency medical technicians and hospital staff, are trained to recognize and follow the directives outlined in the CA POLST Form. It is essential for patients to discuss their wishes with family members and caregivers to ensure everyone understands the patient's preferences regarding medical treatment.

Steps to complete the CA POLST Form

Completing the CA POLST Form involves several key steps:

• Consultation: Discuss your health status and treatment preferences with your physician or healthcare provider.
• Fill out the form: Provide information about your medical condition and specify your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments.
• Sign the form: Ensure that both you and your physician sign the form to make it legally binding.
• Distribute copies: Share copies of the completed form with your healthcare team, family members, and keep one for your records.

Legal use of the CA POLST Form

The CA POLST Form is legally recognized in California, meaning that healthcare providers are obligated to follow the instructions outlined in the form. It serves as a medical order, which is distinct from an advance directive. The form is designed to be used in emergency situations where immediate decisions about life-sustaining treatment are required. It is important for patients to ensure that the form is filled out accurately and reflects their current wishes, as it can have significant implications for their medical care.

Key elements of the CA POLST Form

The CA POLST Form includes several key components that outline a patient's treatment preferences:

• Resuscitation preferences: Indicates whether the patient wishes to receive CPR or not.
• Medical interventions: Specifies the types of medical treatments the patient wants or does not want, such as hospitalization or intensive care.
• Nutrition and hydration: Addresses the patient's preferences regarding artificial nutrition and hydration.
• Signature and date: Requires the signatures of both the patient and the physician to validate the form.

How to obtain the CA POLST Form

The CA POLST Form can be obtained through various channels. It is available at healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, as well as through healthcare providers who can assist in completing the form. Additionally, the form can be downloaded from official state resources and printed for personal use. It is important to ensure that the most current version of the form is used to reflect the latest legal standards and medical practices.