The End-of-Life Wishes Arc: Exploring End-of-Life, Advance Directive, and Code Status Wishes with Patients and Families

This chapter discusses the End-of-Life Wishes Arc, the goal of which is to explore the end-of-life wishes of patients and families, including advance directive and code status preferences. The chapter outlines a series of questions to help patients articulate their priorities during this period, including what they want their life to be like in the time they have remaining and where they would like to be at the end of their lives. The chapter provides guidance on evaluating patient and family hospice mindedness and provides an overview of palliative (supportive) care, including the importance of providing palliative (supportive) care to patients, when to consider a referral, and how to effectively communicate with patients and their families about the benefits of such care. The language and strategies provided will assist healthcare providers in confidently and compassionately making palliative (supportive) care and hospice care referrals, ensuring the best possible care for their patients.