What does the acronym POLST emphasize in patient care?

The acronym POLST stands for "Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment," which emphasizes the importance of documenting a patient's treatment preferences in emergencies, particularly concerning life-sustaining interventions. It is designed for individuals with serious illnesses or those nearing the end of life, allowing them to communicate their wishes regarding resuscitation, hospitalization, and other medical interventions in a clear and legally binding manner.

This approach ensures that healthcare providers understand and respect the patient's preferences during critical situations when the patient may be unable to speak for themselves. By focusing on treatment preferences in emergencies, POLST helps to align medical decisions with the patient's goals of care, enhances quality of life, and can prevent unwanted or aggressive treatments that may not reflect the patient's wishes.