Advance Directives

As part of your right to self-determination, a competent adult can communicate preferences regarding medical support through the formulation of an advance directive.

Common Advance Directives

Health Care Proxy: This is a legal document recognized by New York State in which you can choose another person to make treatment decisions for you in the event you become incapable of making these decisions.

Living Will: This contains your instructions about the use of life-sustaining treatment.

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR): This order written in your medical chart by your physician instructs the medical and nursing staff not to try to revive you if your breath or heartbeat has stopped.

Advance directive materials will be given to you upon admission to the hospital and should be discussed with your physician and nurse. The patient representative and the pastoral care department are also available to answer your questions.