Advance Directives: Do I Need One?

Author

Abigail M. Bohn

Publication Date

4-28-2020

Document Type

Essay

First Advisor

Sabio, Cristan

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Nursing and Health Studies

Abstract

Background: An advance directive is a document explaining the extent of medical treatment an individual wishes to receive in the event that they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact of advance directives and to find ways to improve the advance care planning process. Methods: Twelve peer reviewed journal articles, containing both qualitative and quantitative data, discussing the use of advance directives in acute and primary care settings with amongst populations were referenced. Results: Results of these articles show that advance care planning should begin in the primary care setting while individuals are still capable of making their own decisions for future health care. Conclusion: Advance directives are not being utilized enough and when they are the documents are insufficient. More research is needed on measures to increase the use and effectiveness of advance directives.

Recommended Citation

Bohn, Abigail M., "Advance Directives: Do I Need One?" (2020). Honors Capstones. 109.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/studentengagement-honorscapstones/109

Extent

28 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text