How does the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) differ from a living will?

The distinction that makes the chosen answer valid lies in the nature of a POLST form compared to a living will. A POLST, or Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, is indeed a medical order that is signed by a healthcare provider. This formal medical directive translates a patient's wishes regarding the use of life-sustaining treatments into actionable orders for healthcare personnel.

This signature by a physician not only conveys the patient's preferences but also ensures that these preferences are taken seriously and followed by medical staff across various settings, including hospitals and emergency services. As a result, the POLST acts effectively in acute situations, where immediate medical decisions are necessary.

In contrast, a living will is a legal document that outlines an individual's wishes concerning medical treatments they wish to receive or avoid, particularly in scenarios where they may be unable to communicate their preferences. While living wills provide important guidance, they do not carry the same immediate enforceability as orders like POLST do.

Understanding this difference is crucial for healthcare providers, patients, and families in planning for end-of-life care, ensuring that the patient's specific wishes are honored in a medical crisis.