TL;DR

Advance Directives: Legal documents specifying healthcare preferences and designating a decision-maker if the patient becomes unable to communicate.

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Advance Directives

CNA NNAAP NREMT EMT NREMT PARAMEDIC MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Definition

Legal documents specifying healthcare preferences and designating a decision-maker if the patient becomes unable to communicate.

Overview

Advance directives take effect when a person loses decision-making ability. The Patient Self-Determination Act (1990) requires facilities to inform patients about these rights.

Types

Living will: specifies desired treatments in terminal illness
Healthcare proxy: designates a decision-maker
DNR order: physician order not to perform CPR
POLST/MOLST: physician orders for life-sustaining treatment

Clinical Implications

CNAs must know which residents have directives. If a DNR resident arrests, do not perform CPR—call for the nurse.

EMTs need a valid written DNR to withhold resuscitation. Verbal family statements generally are not sufficient.

Why It Matters

Tested on CNA, EMT, MA, and Paramedic exams. Understanding DNR orders and healthcare proxy roles is essential.

Practice This Topic

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Frequently Asked Questions

Living will vs. healthcare proxy?▼

A living will specifies treatments in writing. A proxy designates a person to decide. They complement each other.

Should an EMT withhold CPR on verbal request?▼

Generally no. Most jurisdictions require a valid written DNR/POLST order.

Can directives be changed?▼

Yes, at any time while the person has decision-making capacity.