Nutrition Care Advanced Directives Policy and Procedure

Purpose

To establish guidelines for documenting, implementing, and honoring patients' advance directives regarding nutritional care and feeding preferences.

Scope

This policy applies to all healthcare providers, dietitians, and clinical staff involved in nutritional care delivery.

Policy Components

1. Documentation Requirements

• Patient's nutritional preferences and restrictions
• Religious or cultural dietary requirements
• Artificial nutrition and hydration preferences
• Designated healthcare proxy for nutrition decisions

2. Implementation Procedures

A. Initial Assessment

1. Review existing advance directives upon admission
2. Document nutritional preferences in EMR
3. Obtain consent for nutrition care plan
4. Verify dietary restrictions with patient/proxy

B. Communication Protocol

1. Notify all relevant departments of restrictions
2. Place appropriate diet cards on patient charts
3. Update meal service systems accordingly

3. Quality Assurance

• Regular audits of compliance
• Documentation review
• Staff training requirements
• Incident reporting procedures

Legal Considerations

Required Documentation

• Signed advance directive forms
• Witness signatures
• Healthcare proxy designation
• Regular review dates

Updates and Modifications

1. Annual review of directives
2. Protocol for emergency modifications
3. Documentation of changes

Staff Responsibilities

Registered Dietitians

• Initial assessment
• Care plan development
• Documentation compliance

Nutrition Staff

• Implementation of restrictions
• Meal preparation compliance
• Communication with care team

Review and Approval

Policy Number: _______________ Effective Date: ______________ Review Date: ________________ Approved By: ________________