Advance Directive
Preparing for an Emergency in Edgar County & Beyond
In the face of a medical emergency, clear communication is essential. An
advance directive empowers you to do just that, ensuring your medical
wishes are known and respected if you're ever unable to make decisions
for yourself.
What Is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a written statement from a person stating how they
want their medical decisions made in case they are ever unable to physically
or mentally decide on their own. It serves two key purposes:
-
Clarity for Medical Teams: By outlining your wishes in advance, you provide valuable guidance to
doctors and nurses, allowing them to provide care that aligns with your
values and goals.
-
Reduced Family Burden: During a stressful medical emergency, your loved ones shouldn't have to
grapple with difficult treatment decisions. An advance directive lessens
this burden by giving them a roadmap for your wishes.
There are several components that can make up an advance directive, each
addressing different aspects of your care, including:
-
Healthcare Power of Attorney: This document appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions
on your behalf if you're incapacitated.
-
Living Will: A living will specifies your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments,
such as artificial respiration or tube feeding, in the event of a terminal
illness or permanent unconscious state.
-
Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR is a specific directive requesting that cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR) not be attempted if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
Understanding the Differences
It's important to understand the distinctions between these components:
-
Scope: An advance directive is an umbrella term encompassing various documents,
while a DNR is a specific instruction regarding CPR.
-
Level of Detail: A living will delves deeper into your preferences for life-sustaining
treatments, whereas a DNR focuses solely on resuscitation efforts.
-
Decision-Making: A healthcare power of attorney appoints someone to make decisions on your
behalf, whereas a living will and DNR pre-determine your wishes for specific
situations.
Taking Control of Your Care
Having an advance directive conversation with your doctor and loved ones
is a proactive step towards ensuring your healthcare wishes are respected.
Horizon Health encourages you to explore these resources and discuss them
with your care providers.
Download Advance Directives forms from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
For assistance with advance directive planning, call our patient care navigator team at
217-466-4550.
