Glossary: Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST)

Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) are medical orders that specify the types of life-sustaining treatments a seriously ill patient wants or does not want.

They are completed with a healthcare professional and are intended to be followed by medical personnel, especially in emergency situations.

What a POLST does

A POLST provides clear, actionable medical orders for treatment decisions.

It ensures that:

• medical teams follow specific treatment preferences
• instructions are immediately applicable in emergencies
• care aligns with the patient’s wishes

Unlike general directives, POLST forms are used as clinical orders.

Why a POLST is important

A POLST helps translate preferences into medical action.

Without a POLST:

• treatment decisions may default to standard medical protocols
• preferences may not be immediately accessible or actionable

With a POLST:

• medical teams have clear instructions
• decisions can be made quickly and consistently
• care is more closely aligned with patient wishes

What a POLST includes

A POLST typically includes instructions on:

• resuscitation (e.g. CPR or DNR)
• use of mechanical ventilation
• levels of medical intervention
• other life-sustaining treatments

The exact format depends on jurisdiction.

What a POLST does NOT do

A POLST does not:

• replace a living will
• appoint a decision-maker (see healthcare power of attorney)
• apply broadly to all individuals

It is intended for seriously ill or high-risk patients.

When a POLST is used

A POLST is typically used:

• in cases of serious or advanced illness
• when specific treatment decisions are needed
• in coordination with healthcare providers

It is often part of ongoing medical care planning.

Common misunderstandings

Some common misconceptions include:

• confusing POLST with general advance directives
• assuming it is needed by everyone
• thinking it replaces other documents

POLST is more specific and medically actionable.

Related concepts

• Living Will
• DNR Order
• DNI Order
• Health Care Directive

Practical note

A POLST should be discussed with a healthcare professional and kept accessible so it can be followed in emergency situations.