Course Description:

This session will explore the critical role of Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA) and Guardianship in supporting ethical, patient-centered healthcare decision-making. Nurses are often at the forefront of caring for patients who are unable to make their own medical decisions and must understand the legal mechanisms that protect patient autonomy and guide surrogate decision-making. Participants will examine the purpose and scope of Medical Power of Attorney, the process by which surrogate decision-makers make healthcare decisions on behalf of incapacitated patients, and the distinctions between Medical Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney, and Guardianship.

Objectives:

By the end of this session nurses will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose and legal implications of the Medical Power of Attorney.

2. Explain the process of routine healthcare decision-making by surrogate decision-makers.

3. Differentiate between a Durable Power of Attorney and a Medical Power of Attorney.

4. Discuss the role, responsibilities, and legal considerations of guardianship in healthcare decision-making.

Learning Outcomes:

• Upon completion of this session, ≥80% of participants, will self-report increase knowledge in recognizing valid advance care planning documents, applying them in clinical practice, and identifying appropriate decision-makers for patients lacking decisional capacity, as measured by post-activity evaluation.