Advance Directive In Nursing

In a letter written to Jean-Baptiste Leroy in 1789, Benjamin Franklin made the comment, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes” (phrases.org.uk). Ironically, while death is inevitable for every one of us, it is one of the most undiscussed and ill-prepared for events in our lives. Many people do not feel comfortable contemplating their last moments here on earth or their death and very rarely talk about it with family members or friends. Honestly, even as a Christian, I look forward to the future that awaits me, but I do not particularly look forward to the death experience. Regardless of whether or not we feel comfortable preparing for this coming storm in our lives, we have to come to grips with reality and
An advance directive is vital because in many instances the patient loses his or her ability to make decisions for himself or herself during the last stages of his or her life. When a person utilizes an advance directive, he or she can appoint an agent and an alternate agent, if the agent cannot or will not fulfill his or her duties, to make sure the health care provider and the family honors the patient’s wishes. “Advance Directives come in several different and distinct forms: Living Will, Health Care Surrogate (or Proxy), and Medical (or Health Care) Power of Attorney” (Christian Medical & Dental Associations). The health care surrogate and the power of Attorney options offer the appointed agent more flexibility when deciding what best suits the wishes and desires of the patient when compared to a living will. (Christian Medical & Dental
When defining their ethical statement on advance directives, the Christian Medical & Dental Association said, “We believe that God is sovereign and is able to intervene in human affairs using natural or supernatural means. We also believe we are stewards of our bodies, our health and our resources, and therefore we are responsible to God for our lifestyle and healthcare choices.” God urges His people to prepare for future events many times throughout the Scriptures. For example, the author of Proverbs 22:3 stated, “A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.” The end of a person’s life has the capability of causing unimaginable stress and anxiety upon the family and friends of the dying individual. Family members often clash because of differing views about what should be done to sustain an individual’s life. An advance directive is one way to “avoid danger” and provide the family with directions that will honor the last wishes of the dying loved