An Explanation of Advance Care Directives

When the potential outcome for a patient is poor, there may be confusion about the interventions that should be made if the patient is not able to make a sound decision for themselves.

An advance care directive is a critical form of documentation that communicates the patient’s instructions and wishes, taking the burden of decision-making off loved ones.

In the case of sudden deterioration, it is essential to know where a patient’s advance care directive can be found and understand how it works.

What is an Advance Care Directive?

An advance care directive is a legally binding document that outlines a patient’s directions and/or preferences in regards to medical treatment. It is used in the event of incapacitation where the patient does not have the decision-making capacity to communicate their wishes (Public Advocate Victoria 2018).