Occupational Therapy Advanced Directives Policy and Procedure

Purpose

To establish guidelines for the management and implementation of advanced directives in occupational therapy practice, ensuring compliance with state laws and ethical standards while respecting patient autonomy.

Scope

This policy applies to all occupational therapy practitioners, support staff, and students working within [FACILITY NAME].

Definitions

• Advanced Directive: A legal document that outlines a patient's wishes regarding medical treatment if they become incapacitated
• Healthcare Proxy: An individual designated to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the patient
• Living Will: A document specifying desired medical treatments in specific circumstances

Policy Guidelines

1. Documentation Requirements

• Verify existence of advanced directives during initial evaluation
• Document location of advanced directive copies in EMR
• Include healthcare proxy contact information in patient records
• Update documentation annually or upon changes

2. Staff Responsibilities

Occupational Therapist

• Review advanced directives relevant to OT interventions
• Modify treatment plans according to directive specifications
• Communicate restrictions to therapy team members
• Document all decisions related to advanced directives

Support Staff

• Maintain current copies of advanced directives
• Ensure accessibility of documents during treatment
• Forward updates to appropriate personnel

3. Implementation Procedures

1. Obtain copies of advanced directives during intake
2. Review directives for therapy-specific instructions
3. Document modifications to standard protocols
4. Communicate with healthcare proxy as needed
5. Update care plan accordingly

Compliance and Review

• Annual policy review required
• Staff training conducted bi-annually
• Documentation audits performed quarterly

References

State-specific healthcare regulations AOTA Code of Ethics Facility compliance guidelines