Let's Deconstruct the Alphabet Soup of Advance Care Planning

When it comes to Advance Care Planning, acronyms and confusing buzz words are everywhere: CPR, DNR, IV, POLST. And what about a POA, living will, ventilator and intubation? Is your head spinning in fuzzy medical terms and acronyms? It is quite common to feel lost or overwhelmed.

When it comes to completing your Health Care Directive, a good first step is developing clarity surrounding the medical jargon and abbreviations. Once you clearly understand the medical terms and options, you can develop confidence and feel more comfortable pondering the wishes and values for your future medical care.

Advance Care Planning should not have to be alphabet soup. To help minimize confusion and uncertainty, you may find a "ACP Terms and Acronyms" cheat sheet helpful. This may help you deconstruct the alphabet soup of Advance Care Planning, so you can complete your Health Care Directive ASAP (acronym intended!). And remember, a Health Care Directive is all about what makes sense for you.

Advance Care Planning is recommended for any adults 18 years and older. Health Care Directives cover us for unexpected incidents including car accidents or sudden health scares.

Learn more about Advance Care Planning.