What it means
Originally Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, now often Portable Medical Orders. It is meant for people who are seriously ill or frail. It records decisions about CPR, how much medical treatment to give (such as a breathing tube or hospital transfer) and artificial nutrition. Unlike an advance directive, it is an actual medical order that emergency crews and facilities follow, and it travels with the client. States use different names for it.
For the nurse
Ask on admission whether the client has a POLST or advance directive, and make sure a copy is in the record and known to the team. Review it with the client or decision-maker when their condition changes.
At a glance
| Also written | physician orders for life-sustaining treatment, physician order for life-sustaining treatment |
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Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.
durable power of attorney
A legal document in which a person names someone to make decisions for them if they become unable to decide for themselves.