What is Advanced Care Planning?
Advanced care planning (ACP) is a process that supports adults at any age or stage of health in understanding and sharing their personal values, life goals, and preferences regarding future medical care. The goal is to ensure that people receive medical care that is consistent with their values, goals, and preferences during serious and chronic illness.
Why is Advanced Care Planning Important in Nursing?
Among the various responsibilities of nurses, facilitating ACP is crucial. It ensures that patients'
wishes and preferences are respected in scenarios where they might be unable to communicate them. ACP can improve the quality of care and align treatments with the values of patients, easing the decision-making burden on families and healthcare providers.
Advance Directives: Legal documents that specify the types of medical care a person wishes to receive or avoid.
Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: A legal document naming a healthcare proxy or
surrogate decision-maker.
Living Wills: Documents that express a person's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders: Instructions to not perform CPR if a patient's heart stops.
Assessing the patient’s understanding of their condition and prognosis.
Discussing the patient’s values, beliefs, and preferences regarding end-of-life care.
Providing information on
treatment options and potential outcomes.
Assisting in the completion of advance directives and other relevant documents.
Ensuring that the patient’s care team is aware of and respects the ACP documents.
Lack of Time: Nurses often have limited time to engage in comprehensive ACP discussions.
Communication Barriers: Difficulties in discussing sensitive topics, such as end-of-life care.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting diverse cultural and religious beliefs regarding medical care.
Legal and Ethical Issues: Navigating the legal complexities and ethical dilemmas associated with ACP.
Seek
training and education on effective communication and ACP facilitation.
Utilize ACP tools and resources, such as patient education materials and standardized forms.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers, chaplains, and legal advisors.
Advocate for organizational support and policies that prioritize ACP.
Conclusion
Advanced care planning is a vital aspect of nursing that ensures patient-centered care. By understanding its importance, components, and challenges, and by employing effective strategies, nurses can significantly enhance the quality of care for patients facing serious and chronic illnesses.
