Advance Directives

This chapter highlights the growing importance of advance care planning (ACP) in health care, particularly in pre-anesthesia settings. It discusses the legal framework, prevalence rates, and disparities in ACP completion. Key interventions, such as proactive ACP discussions and strategies to overcome barriers, are explored. Additionally, the chapter emphasizes the role of anesthesiologists in facilitating ACP discussions, ensuring patient preferences are respected, and documenting code status decisions effectively. Overall, it underscores the need for proactive engagement and effective communication to align patient care with their values and preferences.