End of Life Decisions and Supportive Planning

Course overview

End of life planning is an important aspect of assistance provided to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). There are different routes people with IDD follow and, as providers, we need to be aware of the options available. We will discuss the comfort care bracelet, the MOLST (medical orders for life-sustaining treatment) form, advance directives, durable power of attorney, and the limitations of court-appointed guardians. We will also discuss the limitations experienced by people with IDD and their guardians, with respect to the paperwork requirements, as well as within the court system, and how we as nurses can help simplify the process of making end of life decisions and plans.