What should the licensed practical nurse (LPN) do if a patient is admitted without Portable Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) to a long-term care facility at the time of admission?

The LPN should suggest a care planning conference to evaluate whether POLST is appropriate when the patient or resident is admitted to a long-term care facility without POLST.

The planning conference should include the patient’s or resident’s medical provider, the patient and/or surrogate decision-maker, and key family members.

Discussions should include a review of the patient's or resident’s medical history and recommendations from treating providers.

POLST should not be written as part of routine admission paperwork without medical professional involvement and extensive discussion.