POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)

POLST, or Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, is a medical form designed for individuals with serious health conditions. It translates patients' preferences for treatment into actionable medical orders. Specifically, it outlines what kind of care a patient wishes to receive in emergency situations, such as resuscitation or use of life-support. The POLST form is signed by a healthcare provider and is intended to ensure that the patient’s wishes are respected across different healthcare settings. It promotes discussions about end-of-life care and helps both patients and families make informed decisions regarding treatment options.